Phoenix vs Tempe: Massage Therapist Salary (2026)
Compare massage therapist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Tempe, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Tempe, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,884▲ | $61,302 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.16▲ | $29.48 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,069▲ | $36,663 |
| 25th Percentile | $54,478▲ | $46,268 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,190 | $78,466▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,248▲ | $95,019 |
| Total Employed | 1,890▲ | 43 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for massage therapists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tempe.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Tempe is $5,582 (9.11%). 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,Tempe spans $58,356. 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, Phoenix ($64,737 effective) pays 4.02% more than Tempe ($62,236 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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $64,737)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tempe if…
- ✓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 Tempe over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$40,580 (2019) → $63,080 (2025)
Tempe, AZ
$51,436 (2024) → $57,816 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
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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