If you’re a school psychologist or a job seeker looking for the best opportunities, location matters. School psychologist salaries can vary widely depending on the city and school district. To help you narrow down your options, here’s a list of cities known for offering competitive pay for school psychologists, along with insights into what makes these locations stand out.
1San Francisco, California
- Average Salary: $110,000+
- Why It’s Great: San Francisco’s robust funding for education ensures school psychologists are well-compensated. The district often invests in mental health resources, emphasizing the importance of professionals in their schools.
- Pro Tip: While the salaries are high, remember to account for San Francisco’s cost of living when considering opportunities here.
2New York City, New York
- Average Salary: $95,000 – $115,000
- Why It’s Great: The largest school district in the U.S. boasts some of the most competitive salaries, with a high demand for school psychologists in diverse educational settings.
- Pro Tip: Schools serving underprivileged communities often offer additional incentives or perks.
3Seattle, Washington
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $105,000
- Why It’s Great: Seattle values mental health support in schools, making experienced psychologists in high demand. Many districts also provide additional benefits packages.
- Pro Tip: Nearby suburban districts surrounding Seattle may also offer comparable salaries but with a lower cost of living.
4Boston, Massachusetts
- Average Salary: $95,000 – $110,000
- Why It’s Great: The Boston Public School system emphasizes student support services, making it a rewarding place for psychologists looking to make an impact.
- Pro Tip: Look for openings in specialized schools for students with unique needs—they often pay premium salaries.
5Los Angeles, California
- Average Salary: $90,000 – $100,000
- Why It’s Great: LAUSD, the nation’s second-largest school district, has a committed focus on student wellness and mental health programs, giving psychologists opportunities in various roles.
- Pro Tip: Explore opportunities in local charter schools, which sometimes offer higher salaries than public schools.
6Chicago, Illinois
- Average Salary: $85,000 – $100,000
- Why It’s Great: The city’s strong focus on mental health education in public schools ensures school psychologists are in high demand and well-compensated.
- Pro Tip: Districts on the outskirts of Chicago often have smaller caseloads, making them an appealing alternative.
7Washington, D.C.
- Average Salary: $95,000 – $105,000
- Why It’s Great: Education funding in the nation’s capital consistently prioritizes mental health services, providing excellent opportunities for school psychologists.
- Pro Tip: Consider applying to both public and private schools to maximize your options.
8Denver, Colorado
- Average Salary: $80,000 – $95,000
- Why It’s Great: Denver has seen a growing emphasis on mental health services in schools, leading to increased demand and salaries for psychologists.
- Pro Tip: Districts outside Denver, like Boulder, often match Denver salaries but come with a more affordable lifestyle.
Finding the right city as a school psychologist is about more than just salary—it’s about the overall experience, workload, and work-life balance. These cities not only offer competitive pay but also highlight the importance of mental health services in schools.
Pro Tip: Use this list as a starting point and research individual school districts to find opportunities that align best with your personal and professional goals.
Photo by Eutah Mizushima on Unsplash
