Maricopa vs Tucson: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Maricopa, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Maricopa, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,112▲ | $47,683 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.61▲ | $22.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,861 | $40,543▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $44,006 | $46,269▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $62,034▲ | $60,224 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $76,123 | $78,421▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 3,530▲ |
Verdict
Maricopa and Tucson are closely matched on overall elementary school teacher compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Maricopa and Tucson is $1,429 (3.00%). Maricopa's median is -23.97% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Maricopa spans $39,262,Tucson spans $37,878. Maricopa 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, Maricopa ($49,860 effective) pays 1.32% more than Tucson ($49,210 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Maricopa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($49,112/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,860)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($78,421)
- ✓Larger job market (3,530 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Maricopa grew -16.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.1% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Maricopa, AZ
$57,909 (2024) → $48,635 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$41,740 (2019) → $47,220 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Maricopa, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Maricopa or Tucson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Maricopa and Tucson?
Should I relocate from Maricopa to Tucson as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Maricopa vs Tucson?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, M.Ed.
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in elementary education. They focus on curriculum development and teaching methodologies. Their experience includes working in public schools.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 0.98% 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, M.Ed., a licensed elementary school teacher with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov