Phoenix vs Glendale: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Glendale, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Glendale, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,884▲ | $64,106 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.16▲ | $30.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,069▲ | $37,182 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,478▲ | $46,156 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,190 | $82,056▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,248▲ | $99,364 |
| Total Employed | 1,890▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Glendale.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Glendale is $2,778 (4.33%). Phoenix's median is +7.92% compared to the US national median of $61,975.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $61,179,Glendale spans $62,182. Glendale has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced massage therapists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Glendale ($65,082 effective) pays 0.53% more than Phoenix ($64,737 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,884/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,248)
- ✓Larger job market (1,890 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Glendale if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,082)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, massage therapist salaries in Phoenix grew 55.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.4% growth in Glendale over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$40,580 (2019) → $63,080 (2025)
Glendale, AZ
$53,789 (2024) → $60,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Glendale, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays massage therapists more: Phoenix or Glendale?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Glendale?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Glendale as a massage therapist?
What do entry-level massage therapists earn in Phoenix vs Glendale?
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Written by Jordan Lee, LMT
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has 10 years of experience in massage therapy. They specialize in sports massage. They work in a wellness center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 6.03% 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, LMT, a licensed massage therapist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov