Entry-Level Clinical and Counseling Psychologist Salary in Rochester, MN: $83,665 (2026)
Quick Answer:New clinical and counseling psychologists entering the Rochester, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $83,665 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 19-3033, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Rochester's local price level (BEA RPP 90.8 — 9% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $92,121 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($130,163) within a few years of clinical practice.
Official BLS data · View source
Entering the field as a clinical and counseling psychologist in Rochester, MN, comes with a starting annual salary of approximately $83,665, as projected for 2026. While this figure may appear modest compared to the city's median salary of $130,163, it represents a solid beginning within a robust job market. New graduates can expect to grow their earnings significantly in the first few years, with potential salaries reaching $93,027 by the 25th percentile as they gain experience and establish their practices. Given the positive growth rate of 5.08% expected annually, Rochester is cultivating a promising environment for aspiring psychologists, making it a favorable location for those just starting their careers.
Career Earnings Timeline in Rochester
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 Rochester
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologists in Rochester, MN typically start between $83,665 and $93,027 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $139,535 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $130,163 — 23.16% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average psychology program cost in Minnesota of $90,000 represents just 107.57% of the starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay ($83,665/year) in Rochester. 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 Rochester
- 1Research the Rochester market: entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist pay ranges from $83,665 to $93,027, 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 Rochester, 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 Rochester for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Rochester's below-average 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 Rochester is $139,535 ( 166.78%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $83,665, experienced hygienists can earn up to $223,200.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2021 BLS Actual
$78,930
2025 BLS Actual
$79,620
2026 Current Est.
$83,665
2021–2027 Growth
+11.4%
Salary Trajectory for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in Rochester (2021–2027)
2021–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.08% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | $78,930 | Actual |
| 2022 | $84,120 | Actual |
| 2023 | $76,830 | Actual |
| 2024 | $75,150 | Actual |
| 2025 | $79,620 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $83,665 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $87,915 | Projected |
Entry-level clinical and counseling psychologist compensation (10th percentile) in Rochester, MN grew 0.9% over 5 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $78,930 in 2021 to $79,620 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $87,915. New graduates entering the Rochester job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2021–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Rochester 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 Rochester
In Rochester, various employers actively seek new graduates to integrate into their teams, including large hospital systems and corporate group practices. These organizations typically offer structured onboarding programs, making it easier for newcomers to gain practical experience and professional development. However, for those pursuing this pathway, obtaining state licensure and considering advanced certifications can enhance earning potential right from the start. Career progression within the first few years is generally fruitful, as entry-level professionals can expect to see their compensation rise in alignment with their growing responsibilities and acquired skills. Additionally, networking with established psychologists in the area can provide insights and guidance that significantly influence starting clinical and counseling psychologist pay in Minnesota, ultimately paving the way for a successful career.
More salary data for Rochester, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for clinical and counseling psychologists in Rochester in 2026?
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Is psychology school worth it in Rochester?
What do new clinical and counseling psychologists make right out of school in Rochester?
How do I become a clinical and counseling psychologist in Minnesota?
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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 Rochester. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS, 5-year dataset (–). Per-city data from annual BLS metropolitan area surveys.
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