Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Edina, MN: $63,917 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Edina, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $63,917 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Edina's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $64,890 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($110,202) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of clinical and counseling psychology in Edina, Minnesota, the initial salary expectations can be considerably lower than the city's median of $110,202. The entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist salary Edina offers, at approximately $63,917, reflects the starting point from which many will develop their careers. New grads can expect to see gradual increases in pay within their first three to five years, potentially advancing through the percentiles with a P25 salary of $79,890 along the way. This growth trajectory is promising, especially considering Edina's compact employment market with just eleven total professionals in this role, suggesting that opportunities exist for committed individuals seeking their first positions.
About the Edina Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($96,180) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Edina
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 Edina
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Edina, MN typically start between $63,917 and $79,890 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $106,896 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $110,202 — 4.27% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Minnesota of $90,000 represents just 140.81% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($63,917/year) in Edina. 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 Edina
- 1Research the Edina market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $63,917 to $79,890, 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 MN often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Edina, 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 Edina for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Edina'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 Edina is $106,896 ( 167.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $63,917, experienced hygienists can earn up to $170,813.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$51,830
2025 BLS Actual
$60,827
2026 Current Est.
$63,917
2021–2027 Growth
+29.6%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Edina (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $51,830 | Actual |
| 2022 | $47,145 | Actual |
| 2023 | $53,826 | Actual |
| 2024 | $53,121 | Actual |
| 2025 | $60,827 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $63,917 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $67,164 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Edina, MN grew 17.4% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $51,830 in 2021 to $60,827 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $67,164. New graduates entering the Edina job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Edina 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 Edina
In terms of employment options, new graduates can find opportunities in Edina with larger healthcare systems and corporate group practices that provide structured onboarding for entry-level professionals. This can be a significant advantage, as these employers often implement comprehensive training programs that help ease the transition from education to practice. Credentialing is another area where early-career psychologists can enhance their qualifications; obtaining state licensure and considering advanced certifications recognized by national bodies can positively influence pay. For those in their first one to three years in this market, realistic salary growth typically ranges as they gain experience and further their education. Strategizing their career path and gaining exposure in various settings can significantly impact their salaries, contributing to a more favorable position as they advance in the profession.
More salary data for Edina, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
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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 Edina. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Edina 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