Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Moscow, ID: $56,959 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Moscow, ID job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $56,959 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Moscow's local price level (BEA RPP 95.3 — 5% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $59,768 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($98,205) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

Securing a position as a newly minted clinical and counseling psychologist in Moscow can yield an entry-level salary starting at approximately $56,959 in 2026. This figure reflects the lower range of the salary spectrum, which starkly contrasts with the overall median annual salary for the city at $98,205. For new graduates, the potential to grow their compensation is significant, as one can expect to see salary increases from this initial figure to around $70,707 within just a few years. With a market growth trajectory set at 5.08% annually, Moscow offers a stable environment for those venturing into this profession. Thus, for fresh graduates considering their first position, it appears to be an opportune market to kickstart their careers in clinical and counseling psychology.
About the Moscow Market
Salary estimated from Idaho average ($82,790) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Moscow
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 Moscow
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Moscow, ID typically start between $56,959 and $70,707 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $95,258 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $98,205 — 7.08% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Idaho of $50,000 represents just 87.78% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($56,959/year) in Moscow. 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 Moscow
- 1Research the Moscow market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $56,959 to $70,707, 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 Moscow, 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 Moscow for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Moscow'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 Moscow is $95,258 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $56,959, experienced hygienists can earn up to $152,217.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$46,188
2025 BLS Actual
$54,205
2026 Current Est.
$56,959
2021–2027 Growth
+29.6%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Moscow (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $46,188 | Actual |
| 2022 | $42,012 | Actual |
| 2023 | $47,966 | Actual |
| 2024 | $44,618 | Actual |
| 2025 | $54,205 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $56,959 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $59,852 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Moscow, ID grew 17.4% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $46,188 in 2021 to $54,205 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $59,852. New graduates entering the Moscow job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Moscow 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 Moscow
In Moscow, employers such as large hospital systems and corporate group practices are actively seeking new graduates who can benefit from structured onboarding programs. Many of these organizations are not only familiar with the entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist salary but also recognize the importance of ongoing professional development. Obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing additional certifications recommended by national bodies can significantly enhance earning potential. During the first few years in this competitive field, strategic career planning is crucial. Those who align their skills with the needs of more lucrative employers, like integrated healthcare facilities, may observe a marked increase in their salaries. Realistically, early-career psychologists in this area can expect their pay to evolve positively as they gain experience and credentials, setting the stage for future advancement within the profession.
More salary data for Moscow, ID:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Moscow in 2026?
How fast do clinical and counseling psychologist salaries grow in Moscow?
Is psychology school worth it in Moscow?
What do new clinical and counseling psychologists make right out of school in Moscow?
How do I become a clinical and counseling psychologist in Idaho?
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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 Moscow. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Moscow 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