Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Longmont, CO: $63,705 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Longmont, CO job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $63,705 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Longmont's local price level (BEA RPP 105.0 — 5% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $60,671 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($109,244) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
New graduates seeking a career as a clinical and counseling psychologist in Longmont, Colorado, can anticipate a starting salary around $63,705 in 2026. This entry-level compensation marks a significant gap when compared to the median annual salary for the city, which is projected at $109,244. Over the first three to five years, entry-level professionals can expect their earnings to grow as they gain experience and pursue further educational opportunities. By advancing to the 25th percentile at $81,536, these early-career psychologists can see their salary rise gradually, with potential earnings reaching the median as they establish themselves in the field. Given the competitive landscape and moderate cost of living in Longmont, the market appears to offer reasonable prospects for new grads eager to begin their careers.
About the Longmont Market
Salary estimated from Colorado average ($126,260) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Longmont
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Longmont
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Longmont, CO typically start between $63,705 and $81,536 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $105,624 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $109,244 — 3.36% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Colorado of $80,000 represents just 125.58% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($63,705/year) in Longmont. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on APA-accredited PsyD and PhD clinical psychology program data. PsyD programs (predominantly clinical) typically charge tuition; PhD programs (research-focused) often offer full funding plus stipend. Median time-to-degree is 5-7 years; an additional 1-2 year clinical postdoc plus state EPPP exam is required for licensure.
CCP Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Longmont
- 1Research the Longmont market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $63,705 to $81,536, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the psychology field — employers in CO often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Longmont, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Longmont for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Longmont's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Compensation Range
The clinical and counseling psychologist wage spread in Longmont is $105,624 ( 165.80%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $63,705, experienced hygienists can earn up to $169,329.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$51,658
2025 BLS Actual
$60,625
2026 Current Est.
$63,705
2021–2027 Growth
+29.6%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Longmont (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $51,658 | Actual |
| 2022 | $46,988 | Actual |
| 2023 | $53,647 | Actual |
| 2024 | $75,694 | Actual |
| 2025 | $60,625 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $63,705 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $66,941 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Longmont, CO grew 17.4% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $51,658 in 2021 to $60,625 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $66,941. New graduates entering the Longmont job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Longmont metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.08% CAGR derived from 5-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your psychology Career in Longmont
Professionals aiming for their first roles as clinical and counseling psychologists can find employment opportunities primarily within large hospital systems and corporate group practices in Longmont. These organizations often provide structured onboarding processes, making them ideal for new graduates. To enhance their starting pay in Colorado, candidates should obtain state licensure and consider pursuing advanced certifications that are recognized nationally within the profession. During the initial 1-3 years, the compensation for entry-level positions can vary widely depending on the employer type and geographic market. As new psychologists develop their skills and build a professional network, they can realistically expect salary growth that aligns with the industry’s annual growth rate of 5.08%. With dedication and continued education, new hires have the potential to significantly boost their earnings in this evolving field.
More salary data for Longmont, CO:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Longmont in 2026?
How fast do clinical and counseling psychologist salaries grow in Longmont?
Is psychology school worth it in Longmont?
What do new clinical and counseling psychologists make right out of school in Longmont?
How do I become a clinical and counseling psychologist in Colorado?
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new psychology graduates. A 5.08% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Longmont. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Longmont is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.08%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for clinical and counseling psychologists (SOC 19-3033).
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