* Your specific field within psychology: Clinical psychologists, counseling psychologists, industrial-organizational (I-O) psychologists, school psychologists, and forensic psychologists all have different salary ranges. Clinical and counseling psychologists often earn less early in their careers, while I-O psychologists tend to earn more.
* Your experience: Entry-level positions will pay significantly less than those requiring several years of experience.
* Your location: Salaries vary widely depending on the cost of living in your area. Large cities on the coasts typically pay more than smaller towns in the Midwest.
* Your employer: The type of organization you work for (e.g., private practice, hospital, university, corporation) will greatly influence your salary. Private practices often allow for higher earning potential but may involve more business management responsibilities.
* Your job title: Even within a specific field, job titles influence salary. A senior psychologist will earn more than a junior psychologist.
To get a more accurate idea, you should research salary data specific to your intended field and geographic location. Resources like the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Salary.com, Glassdoor, and Payscale can provide helpful information. Searching for "[specific psychology field] salary [your location]" will yield the most relevant results.