Phoenix vs Tucson: Anesthesiologist Salary (2026)
Compare anesthesiologist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $533,305 | $540,032▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $256.40 | $259.63▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $309,317 | $313,219▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $383,980 | $388,823▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $676,933 | $691,241▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $812,888▲ | $801,458 |
| Total Employed | 365▲ | 137 |
Verdict
Phoenix and Tucson are closely matched on overall anesthesiologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tucson is $6,727 (1.26%). Tucson's median is +32.00% compared to the US national median of $409,107.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $503,571,Tucson spans $488,239. Phoenix 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, Tucson ($548,256 effective) pays 1.26% more than Phoenix ($541,426 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($812,888)
- ✓Larger job market (365 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($540,032/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $548,256)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, anesthesiologist salaries in Phoenix grew 29.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.4% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$394,472 (2024) → $510,340 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$399,447 (2024) → $516,777 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays anesthesiologists more: Phoenix or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Tucson as a anesthesiologist?
What do entry-level anesthesiologists earn in Phoenix vs Tucson?
Related Comparisons
Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has over 10 years of experience in anesthesiology. She specializes in perioperative care at a major metropolitan hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.50% 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 Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed anesthesiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov