Gilbert vs Phoenix: Speech-Language Pathologist Salary (2026)
Compare speech-language pathologist salaries between Gilbert, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gilbert, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $101,764 | $101,952▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.93 | $49.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,724 | $72,523▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,848 | $84,253▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,707 | $125,630▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $148,080▲ | $136,508 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 2,640▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for speech-language pathologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gilbert.
The salary gap between Gilbert and Phoenix is $188 (0.18%). Phoenix's median is +0.17% compared to the US national median of $101,775.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gilbert spans $82,356,Phoenix spans $63,985. Gilbert 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, Gilbert ($103,314 effective) pays 4.70% more than Phoenix ($98,680 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gilbert if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($148,080)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,314)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,952/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,640 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, speech-language pathologist salaries in Gilbert grew 7.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.3% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Gilbert, AZ
$90,897 (2024) → $97,859 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$75,220 (2019) → $98,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gilbert, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays speech-language pathologists more: Gilbert or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gilbert and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Gilbert to Phoenix as a speech-language pathologist?
What do entry-level speech-language pathologists earn in Gilbert vs Phoenix?
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