Chandler vs Phoenix: Medical Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare medical assistant salaries between Chandler, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chandler, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,502▲ | $49,157 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.80▲ | $23.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,012 | $40,529▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,402 | $43,867▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $54,207▲ | $51,498 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $66,153▲ | $57,838 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 15,410▲ |
Verdict
Chandler, AZ offers better overall compensation for medical assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Chandler and Phoenix is $345 (0.70%). Chandler's median is +3.21% compared to the US national median of $47,961.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chandler spans $30,141,Phoenix spans $17,309. Chandler 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, Chandler ($50,256 effective) pays 5.63% more than Phoenix ($47,579 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chandler if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($49,502/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($66,153)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $50,256)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (15,410 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical assistant salaries in Chandler grew 9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.6% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Chandler, AZ
$42,909 (2024) → $47,158 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$34,530 (2019) → $46,830 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chandler, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical assistants more: Chandler or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chandler and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Chandler to Phoenix as a medical assistant?
What do entry-level medical assistants earn in Chandler vs Phoenix?
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Written by Emma Chen, CMA
Career Analyst
Emma has over 8 years of experience as a medical assistant. She has worked in both outpatient clinics and hospitals. Her expertise includes patient care and administrative support.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.97% 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 Emma Chen, CMA, a licensed medical assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov