Phoenix vs San Tan Valley: Elementary School Teacher Salary (2026)
Compare elementary school teacher salaries between Phoenix, AZ and San Tan Valley, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | San Tan Valley, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,760▲ | $48,712 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.73▲ | $23.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $47,854▲ | $35,962 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,319▲ | $45,018 |
| 75th Percentile | $67,828▲ | $61,080 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $82,319▲ | $75,503 |
| Total Employed | 16,560▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for elementary school teachers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to San Tan Valley.
The salary gap between Phoenix and San Tan Valley is $11,048 (22.68%). Phoenix's median is -7.49% compared to the US national median of $64,597.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $34,465,San Tan Valley spans $39,541. San Tan Valley has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced elementary school teachers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Phoenix ($57,842 effective) pays 16.96% more than San Tan Valley ($49,454 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 ($59,760/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($82,319)
- ✓Larger job market (16,560 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $57,842)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose San Tan Valley if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, elementary school teacher salaries in Phoenix grew 29.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -16.0% growth in San Tan Valley over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$45,660 (2019) → $59,180 (2025)
San Tan Valley, AZ
$57,439 (2024) → $48,239 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
San Tan Valley, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays elementary school teachers more: Phoenix or San Tan Valley?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and San Tan Valley?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to San Tan Valley as a elementary school teacher?
What do entry-level elementary school teachers earn in Phoenix vs San Tan Valley?
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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