Springfield vs University City: Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary (2026)
Compare clinical and counseling psychologist salaries between Springfield, MO and University City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, MO | University City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,815 | $101,638▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.33 | $48.86▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,095 | $58,950▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $48,095 | $73,555▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $133,378▲ | $130,096 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $233,919▲ | $157,538 |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Springfield and University City are closely matched on overall clinical and counseling psychologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Springfield and University City is $19,823 (24.23%). University City's median is -3.83% compared to the US national median of $105,689.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $185,824,University City spans $98,588. Springfield has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, University City ($113,435 effective) pays 22.82% more than Springfield ($92,358 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($233,919)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose University City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,638/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $113,435)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, clinical and counseling psychologist salaries in Springfield grew 22.2% from 2021 to 2025, compared to 37.9% growth in University City over the same period.
Springfield, MO
$63,690 (2021) → $77,860 (2025)
University City, MO
$70,128 (2024) → $96,724 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MO
University City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays clinical and counseling psychologists more: Springfield or University City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and University City?
Should I relocate from Springfield to University City as a clinical and counseling psychologist?
What do entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists earn in Springfield vs University City?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience in clinical psychology. She specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy. Maria works at a mental health clinic in Chicago.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.08% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Maria Gonzalez, PhD, LPC, a licensed clinical and counseling psychologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov