Independence vs Springfield: Speech-Language Pathologist Salary (2026)
Compare speech-language pathologist salaries between Independence, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,951 | $96,149▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.65 | $46.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,729▲ | $62,581 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,162 | $79,282▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,668 | $110,957▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $137,372▲ | $127,253 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 290▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, MO offers better overall compensation for speech-language pathologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Independence and Springfield is $1,198 (1.26%). Springfield's median is -5.53% compared to the US national median of $101,775.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $74,643,Springfield spans $64,672. Independence has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($108,539 effective) pays 2.42% more than Independence ($105,972 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,372)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,149/year)
- ✓Larger job market (290 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,539)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, speech-language pathologist salaries in Independence grew 24.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.5% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Independence, MO
$73,153 (2024) → $91,308 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$72,520 (2019) → $92,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays speech-language pathologists more: Independence or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Independence to Springfield as a speech-language pathologist?
What do entry-level speech-language pathologists earn in Independence vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, CCC-SLP
Career Analyst
Jordan has over 8 years of experience in speech-language pathology. He specializes in pediatric language disorders. He works in a community health clinic.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.99% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, CCC-SLP, a licensed speech-language pathologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov