Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | California | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $114,520 | $95,830 | +19.5% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 46 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 11,900 jobs | 72,190 jobs | 16.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in California
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $59,990 | $28.84 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,850 | $37.43 |
| Median | $114,520 | $55.06 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,400 | $76.15 |
| 90th Percentile | $189,540 | $91.13 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California in 2026?
With a median salary of $114,520 in California and a 2021–2024 salary trend of -9.4%, clinical and counseling psychologists remain an established career option.
How can clinical and counseling psychologists increase their salary in California?
Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: California currently ranks #5 out of 46 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Other Ambulatory Health Care Services | $121,340 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $120,990 |
| Home Health Care Services | $118,020 |
How are Clinical and Counseling Psychologists paid in California compared to the national average?
The median salary for Clinical and Counseling Psychologists in California is $114,520, which is 19.5% above the national median of $95,830.