Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Idaho Falls, ID: $59,110 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Idaho Falls, ID job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $59,110 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Idaho Falls's local price level (BEA RPP 95.3 — 5% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $62,025 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($101,913) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
New graduates entering the clinical and counseling psychology field in Idaho Falls can expect a starting salary around $59,110 in 2026, which may seem modest compared to the city median of $101,913. This initial pay reflects the typical compensation for early-career professionals, emphasizing that there is a considerable gap to bridge as they progress. As entry-level psychologists gain experience, there is potential for salary increases, projecting to about $73,377 within a few years, moving closer to the median as they establish their practice. Given the 5.08% annual growth rate in this sector, Idaho Falls appears to be a promising market for new graduates, offering opportunities for professional growth and financial advancement as they build their careers.
About the Idaho Falls Market
Salary estimated from Idaho average ($82,790) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Idaho Falls
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 Idaho Falls
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Idaho Falls, ID typically start between $59,110 and $73,377 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $98,855 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $101,913 — 3.57% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Idaho of $50,000 represents just 84.59% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($59,110/year) in Idaho Falls. 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 Idaho Falls
- 1Research the Idaho Falls market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $59,110 to $73,377, 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 ID often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Idaho Falls, 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 Idaho Falls for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Idaho Falls'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 Idaho Falls is $98,855 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $59,110, experienced hygienists can earn up to $157,965.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$50,460
2025 BLS Actual
$56,252
2026 Current Est.
$59,110
2021–2027 Growth
+23.1%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Idaho Falls (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $50,460 | Actual |
| 2022 | $42,640 | Actual |
| 2023 | $44,630 | Actual |
| 2024 | $46,302 | Actual |
| 2025 | $56,252 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $59,110 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $62,112 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Idaho Falls, ID grew 11.5% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $50,460 in 2021 to $56,252 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $62,112. New graduates entering the Idaho Falls job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Idaho Falls 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 Idaho Falls
In Idaho Falls, potential employers for entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists include large hospital systems and corporate group practices, which often provide structured onboarding programs to help new professionals acclimate. To enhance earning potential, obtaining state licensure and pursuing optional advanced certifications recognized by the profession's national body can be beneficial. In the first few years, new graduates should focus on gaining diverse experiences and further developing their skills, which influences salary significantly based on the type of employer and geographic market. Realistic salary progression within the first three years often positions professionals closer to the 75th percentile, unlocking opportunities for increased pay as they gain valuable expertise. This strategic approach allows new graduate clinical and counseling psychologists in Idaho Falls to effectively navigate their early career stages and set the foundation for long-term success in the field.
More salary data for Idaho Falls, ID:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Idaho Falls in 2026?
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Is psychology school worth it in Idaho Falls?
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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 Idaho Falls. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Idaho Falls 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