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Psychologist Salary Info: The 9 Highest Paying Careers

Which psychology jobs pay the best salary?

Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital.

Psychology careers can offer exciting challenges and personal rewards, but they can also be financially rewarding as well. While psychology can be a high-paying job, you should also recognize that psychology careers and  salaries and yearly earnings can vary greatly. Many students have turned their interest toward some of the highest-paying careers in psychology. 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average median salary for all psychologists was $92,740 as of May 2023. The highest-paying psychologist career salaries were more than $151,880.

While many psychology careers offer higher-than-average yearly salaries, it is important to remember that income depends on various factors, including geographic location, employment sector, educational background, and years of experience.

At a Glance

If you are planning a career in psychology (or thinking about making a career change), you might want to consider some job options with a high earning potential. Some high-paying psychology jobs—such as those in psychiatry, industrial-organizational psychology, and clinical psychology—require advanced education and training, so it's essential to start making an educational plan now rather than later. Keep reading to learn more about the highest-paying psychology careers, the typical salaries for such professions, and the academic requirements for entering these fields.

Psychiatrist

Average Salary:  $256,930 per year

Educational Requirements:  Considered a medical career, psychiatry is significantly tied to the study and application of psychology. Approximately eight years of post-undergraduate study. After earning a bachelor's degree, aspiring psychiatrists must graduate from medical school and then complete a four-year residency.

Psychiatry is one of the highest-paying fields tied to psychology. However, salaries can vary considerably within this field depending on your specialty area , where you are employed, and the work you perform.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist

Average Salary: $154,380 per year

Educational Requirements: In most cases, a master's degree in psychology is the minimum training required, although having a doctorate degree may be advantageous. While opportunities are available at the master's degree level, earning a doctorate degree in industrial-organizational psychology offers greater opportunities and higher salaries.

Industrial-organizational psychologists use their knowledge of psychology to tackle workplace issues. Increasing worker productivity, selecting the best employees for particular jobs, and developing market research surveys are just a few things that an industrial-organizational psychologist might do.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that I/O psychologists in the scientific research and development industry earned an average annual wage of $169,890 as of May 2023. Those employed at colleges, universities, and professional schools earned an average of $93,490.

According to the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology , the average salary for a doctorate-level consultant was $167,000.

Neuropsychologist

Average Salary: $100,000+ per year

Educational Requirements: A doctorate degree in neuropsychology or clinical neuropsychology is needed to work in this field.

Neuropsychologists specialize in the study of the brain and cognitive science. People who work in this field often perform cognitive tests, run brain scans, assess people suffering from brain injury, and study how drugs impact the nervous system. They may work at colleges and universities, hospitals, research centers, mental health clinics, and pharmaceutical labs.

Clinical Psychologist

Average Salary: $96,100 per year

Educational Requirements: In most states, clinical psychologists must have a doctorate degree in psychology. In addition to this education, they must also complete one to two years of supervised residency and pass state licensing exams in order to practice as a licensed clinical psychologist.

Clinical psychologists are trained in assessing, diagnosing, treating, and preventing mental illness. This is also the largest area of employment within psychology. Clinical psychologists work in various settings, including hospitals, mental health clinics, and private practice.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that in May 2019, those employed in individual and family services earned an average of $85,140. Those employed in the offices of other health practitioners earned an average of $100,300 per year.

Engineering Psychologist

Average Salary: $111,368 per year

Educational Requirements: Entry-level positions require a master's degree, but those with a doctorate will find greater employment opportunities and better salaries.

Engineering psychologists work to improve the design of systems, operations, and equipment in order to increase efficiency, improve productivity, and minimize injury. As with other specialty areas of psychology, the area of employment plays a major role in determining salary. Engineering psychologists who work in the private sector earn considerably more than those employed in university settings.

Counseling Psychologist

Average Salary: $96,100 per year

Educational Requirements: A PhD, PsyD , or EdD degree is required to become a counseling psychologist.

Counseling psychologists perform many of the same tasks as clinical psychologists, such as offering psychotherapy and mental health treatment, but they typically work with clients suffering from less severe forms of mental illness.

While mental health is one of the largest areas within counseling psychology, some people in this field opt to conduct research. They also teach university courses or provide vocational counseling.

Forensic Psychologist

Average Salary: $125,000 - $149,999 per year

Educational Requirements: While there are some jobs available with a master's degree, you will typically need a doctorate degree in clinical, counseling, or forensic psychology.

Forensic psychologists deal with psychological issues related to the law. Some of the duties that a professional in this field might perform include developing psychological profiles of criminals, dealing with child custody issues, investigating child abuse, providing expert testimony, preparing witnesses to testify in court, and offering training to law enforcement.

School Psychologist

Average Salary: $84,940 per year

Educational Requirements: Most states require completing a 60-credit school psychology specialist program, which leads to a master's or EdS degree. Approximately 32% of school psychologists hold a PhD , PsyD, or EdD degree.

School psychologists work within the educational system to diagnose and treat behavior and learning problems in children. They often collaborate with other professionals, including teachers, doctors, and parents to help kids overcome social, emotional, behavioral, and academic problems.

According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs in this field are expected to grow by approximately 1% over the next decade.

Sports Psychologist

Average Salary:  $60,000 to $80,000 per year

Educational Requirements:  Most jobs require a master's or doctorate degree in sports psychology or in related areas such as clinical or counseling psychology. Sports psychologists  are interested in the psychological components of sports and athletics.

Professionals in this field often focus on topics such as  motivation  and athletic performance. They utilize their knowledge of psychology to help athletes perform better or to help people recover from sports injuries.

While salaries for sports psychologists typically range between $60,000 and $80,000, those working with professional athletes often earn over six figures.

What Psych Career Is Best For You? Take the Quiz

This fast and free psychology careers quiz can help you get a better sense for which kind of psychology career might be the best fit for your personality, career interests, salary needs, and more.

Choosing a career is a big decision, and the salary is just one of many factors you need to consider. Money is an important component, but factors such as job outlook and quality of life are also essential.

So is becoming a psychologist worth it? Only you can decide. Think about how a particular career may suit your personality and goals in life before committing. In the end, the best job for you is the one you will enjoy the most and fulfills your personal and professional needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

While specific salaries vary depending on factors including experience and location, psychiatry tends to be the highest-paying psychology-related career.

They can! However, it is important to recognize that individual salaries vary greatly. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for psychologists is $92,740 as of May 2023. However, the lowest paid 10% made less than $52,430 per year. Your salary may depend on your specialty, training, experience, area of employment, and geographic location.

Psychology can be a good career if it is suited to your interests and goals. The field is expected to experience modest growth in the coming year, and there are always opportunities for growth depending on where your interests lie. The growing need for mental health services and an aging population means that there will be a need for trained psychologists.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychologists: Pay . Occupational Outlook Handbook.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2023: 29-1223 Psychiatrists .

Zavlin D, Jubbal KT, Noé JG, Gansbacher B. A comparison of medical education in Germany and the United States: from applying to medical school to the beginnings of residency. Ger Med Sci. 2017;15:Doc15. doi:10.3205/000256

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023: 19-3032 Industrial-Organizational Psychologists .

Torpey E. Business careers with high pay.  Career Outlook,  U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2016.

Moralo TS, Graupner LI. The role of the industrial psychologist in managing the psychological impact of COVID-19 in the workplace .  Front Psychol . 2022;13:920894. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.920894

Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology. The SIOP income and employment report is here !

Sweet JJ, Benson LM, Nelson NW, Moberg PJ. The American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology, National Academy of Neuropsychology, and Society for Clinical Neuropsychology (APA Division 40) 2015 in professional practice and ‘salary survey’: Professional practices, beliefs, and incomes of U.S. neuropsychologists . The Clinical Neuropsychologist . 2015;29(8):1069-1162. doi:10.1080/13854046.2016.1140228

Casaletto KB, Heaton RK. Neuropsychological assessment: Past and future .  J Int Neuropsychol Soc . 2017;23(9-10):778-790. doi:10.1017/S1355617717001060

Gee DG, DeYoung KA, McLaughlin KA, et al. Training the next generation of clinical psychological scientists: A data-driven call to action .  Annu Rev Clin Psychol . 2022;18:43-70. doi:10.1146/annurev-clinpsy-081219-092500

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational employment and wages, May 2019: 19-3031 clinical, counseling, and school psychologists .

American Psychological Association.  Postgrad growth area: Engineering psychology .

McAndrew LM, Martin JL, Friedlander M, et al. The common sense of counseling psychology: Introducing the common-sense model of self-regulation .  Couns Psychol Q . 2018;31(4):497-512. doi:10.1080/09515070.2017.1336076

Neal TMS, Line EN. Income, demographics, and life experiences of clinical-forensic psychologists in the United States .  Front Psychol . 2022;13:910672. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2022.910672

Iudici A, Salvini A, Faccio E, Castelnuovo G. The clinical assessment in the legal field: An empirical study of bias and limitations in forensic expertise. Front Psychol. 2015;6:1831. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2015.01831

Volpe RJ, Chafouleas SM, Gonzalez J, Ardoin S, Jimerson SR. The science of school psychologists: Developing a standard definition .  J Sch Psychol . 2022;94:A1-A12. doi:10.1016/j.jsp.2022.06.006

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Psychologists: Job outlook . Occupational Outlook Handbook .

American Psychological Association. Hot careers: Sports psychology .

Röthlin P, Birrer D, Horvath S, Grosse holtforth M. Psychological skills training and a mindfulness-based intervention to enhance functional athletic performance: design of a randomized controlled trial using ambulatory assessment. BMC Psychol. 2016;4(1):39. doi:10.1186/s40359-016-0147-y

By Kendra Cherry, MSEd Kendra Cherry, MS, is a psychosocial rehabilitation specialist, psychology educator, and author of the "Everything Psychology Book."

Research Psychologist Salary Guide 2024

If you are interested in pursuing a job in  research psychology , it is advantageous to understand the potential earnings and ways to advance your career. Our comprehensive guide to the research psychologist salary provides valuable insights for aspiring professionals.

What’s in this guide?

What salary can i expect to earn as a research psychologist, which u.s. cities are paying research psychologists the most, how does a research psychologist’s salary compare to other psychological fields, how do i advance my research psychology career and earn more.

By PsychologyJobs.com Staff Writer

Research psychologists undergo rigorous training to become specialists in behavior and psychological processes. Research psychologists may practice in a range of settings, including universities, research centers, hospitals, and private practices.

Research psychologists in the USA earn an average of $79,000 annually.

The salary for a research psychologist varies based on location, experience level, and type of employer.

According to industry data , research psychologists working in education services can earn an average annual salary of $90,000. Those who work for the military can earn $80,000 per year, while those working in hospitals earn an average of $84,000 annually. Those who work in the pharmaceutical industry earn an average annual salary of $90,000.

Research psychologists specializing in market analysis can earn an average annual salary of $61,000. Meanwhile, those specializing in experimental psychology earn an average of $69,000.

In addition, research psychologists may be eligible for grants and fellowships from universities or organizations, which can provide additional income. Research psychologists also have the potential to earn more money through consulting and speaking engagements related to their field of expertise.

Moreover, research psychologists can expect fantastic benefits such as job satisfaction, flexibility, autonomy, and competitive salaries recommended for those who desire work-life balance.

Research psychologists can expect to earn a good salary depending on their experience and qualifications. With the right education and certifications, they can look forward to even greater rewards in terms of career advancement opportunities.

Some states offer higher wages and more job opportunities than others in terms of regional prospects. For example, California has one of the highest concentrations of research psychologists due to its large population size and many universities offering graduate programs in this field.

To provide a more specific list and potential earnings for research psychologists, here are the  top ten paying  metropolitan areas for research psychologists:

• Sacramento, CA: $ 128,960
• Roseville, CA: $ 128,960
• Arden, CA: $ 128,960
• Arcade, CA: $ 128,960
• San Francisco, CA: $ 126,520
• Oakland, CA: $ 126,520
• Hayward, CA: $ 126,520
• Eugene, OR: $ 125,070
• Jacksonville, FL: $ 114,600
• Baltimore, MD: $ 112,960

Research psychologists’ salaries may significantly vary by region due to differences in the cost of living. Additionally, local labor markets can also impact salaries, with higher demand for specific specialties, such as clinical or forensic psychology leading to higher overall wages, even when accounting for education level and experience.

Note that these are median remuneration as reported. It may differ depending on experience, credentials, area, and other elements, which is the basis of this figure. Highly experienced professionals with an IQ of 150 can earn significantly more than this amount.

There are many different fields within psychology, each with its own unique set of job responsibilities and salary expectations. Here are five examples of other psychological professions and their annual earnings, for comparison to research psychologists.

Clinical Psychologist : $54,000-$98,000 annually

Clinical psychologists provide mental health services to individuals, families, and groups. They assess, diagnose, and treat many psychological disorders using various therapy techniques.

School Psychologist : $63,000- $100,000 annually

School psychologists work with students, parents, and teachers to support a student’s academic and social success. They assess and address learning and behavioral issues and develop interventions to improve student outcomes.

Industrial-Organizational Psychologist : $112,690- $192,000 annually

Industrial-organizational psychologists apply psychological principles to the workplace to improve organizational effectiveness and employee well-being. They conduct research, design interventions, and consult with businesses on employee selection, training, and leadership development.

Forensic Psychologist : $60,000- $124,500 annually

Forensic psychologists apply their expertise in psychology to the criminal justice system. They may evaluate individuals’ competency to stand trial, assess the risk of violence, or provide expert witness testimony in court.

Neuropsychologist: $103,000-$140,000 annually

Neuropsychologists specialize in the study of brain-behavior relationships. They assess and diagnose individuals with brain injuries or disorders and develop interventions to help them manage symptoms and improve their quality of life.

To advance in a career as a research psychologist, one must obtain an accredited doctoral degree in psychology or a related field and meet state licensure requirements. That includes completing an accredited doctoral program and passing the comprehensive Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP), which covers psychological assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning.

Research psychologists must engage in continuing education to maintain their license and keep up-to-date with advances in the field. That includes professional seminars or online classes. Some employers may also require specialized accreditations from organizations like the American Board of Professional Psychology (ABPP) to demonstrate advanced knowledge and expertise in health service or forensic psychology.

To succeed in research psychology, it is imperative to remain informed of the available resources and opportunities. The American Psychological Association (APA) website provides helpful information on job prospects by region and areas of specialization currently in demand. Universities typically offer career centers that can assist with resume writing and marketing oneself during interviews.

Furthermore, local mental health facilities often seek qualified professionals who have the chops to work part-time hours while gaining experience before pursuing full-time positions elsewhere. Thus, leveraging these resources can help pave the way for a successful career as a research psychologist.

Joining organizations such as the American Psychological Association (APA) can be advantageous when seeking to enter research psychology, providing access to job postings and resources like mentorship programs that aid with licensing procedures and post-graduation employment.

Attending conferences hosted by APA or similar organizations can also help connect with potential employers or collaborators who may need assistance on projects related to one’s area of expertise.

Years of experience can also play a significant role in increasing the salary of a research psychologist. As research psychologists become more specialized and develop advanced skills and knowledge, the greater demand for their services and the ability to command higher salaries. As long as research psychologists continue building their skills and experience over time, they can maximize their earning potential.

Research Psychologists Salary in the United States

Research psychologists salary, what is the salary range of research psychologists.

As of December 01, 2024, the average annual salary for a Research Psychologists in the United States is $104,831 . Salary.com reports that pay typically ranges from $89,305 to $118,682 , with most professionals earning between $75,169 and $131,294 .

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Research Psychologists

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Research Psychologist salary

Average research psychologist salary, how much does a research psychologist make.

Research psychologist salary is impacted by location, education, and experience. Research psychologists earn the highest average salary in California.

Where can a Research Psychologist earn more?

• Research Psychologist

Research Psychologist salary estimates from across the web

Average research psychologist salary by state.

The average research psychologist salary in California, Washington, and Virginia are the highest in the U.S. The lowest average research psychologist salary states are Nebraska, Illinois, and Tennessee.

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Highest paying states for research psychologists

Highest paying cities for research psychologists.

The highest-paying cities for research psychologists are San Francisco, CA, Seattle, WA, and McLean, VA.

Research Psychologist salary details

A research psychologist's salary ranges from $63,000 a year at the 10th percentile to $128,000 at the 90th percentile.

What is a research psychologist's salary?

Highest paying research psychologist jobs.

The highest paying types of research psychologists are chief psychologist, senior staff psychologist, and licensed psychologist.

How would you rate the starting salaries for Research Psychologists, as well as the prospects for salary advancement?

Terry Pettijohn Ph.D.

Professor of Psychology , Gupta College of Science

Top companies hiring research psychologists now:

• ARI Jobs (3)
• Federal Aviation Administration Jobs (2)
• US Air Conditioning Distributors Jobs (5)
• U.S. Secret Service Jobs (2)
• ACT Jobs (2)

Which companies pay research psychologists the most?

Research psychologist salaries at Parexel International and Alaka`ina Foundation Family Of Companies are the highest-paying according to our most recent salary estimates. In addition, the average research psychologist salary at companies like CIA Inc and TechWerks are highly competitive.

Wage gap by gender, race and education

Research psychologist salary trends.

The average research psychologist salary has risen by $13,528 over the last ten years. In 2014, the average research psychologist earned $76,912 annually, but today, they earn $90,440 a year. That works out to a 9% change in pay for research psychologists over the last decade.

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