Chandler vs Phoenix: Licensed Practical Nurse Salary (2026)
Compare licensed practical nurse 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 | $83,109▲ | $82,531 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.95▲ | $39.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,142 | $66,295▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,168▲ | $71,548 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,882▲ | $87,203 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,851▲ | $99,094 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 4,450▲ |
Verdict
Chandler, AZ offers better overall compensation for licensed practical nurses, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Chandler and Phoenix is $578 (0.70%). Chandler's median is +22.09% compared to the US national median of $68,071.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chandler spans $51,709,Phoenix spans $32,799. 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 ($84,375 effective) pays 5.62% more than Phoenix ($79,882 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 ($83,109/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,851)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $84,375)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (4,450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, licensed practical nurse salaries in Chandler grew 20.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.5% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Chandler, AZ
$65,386 (2024) → $78,627 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$55,960 (2019) → $78,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chandler, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays licensed practical nurses more: Chandler or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chandler and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Chandler to Phoenix as a licensed practical nurse?
What do entry-level licensed practical nurses earn in Chandler vs Phoenix?
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Written by Aisha Malik, LPN
Career Analyst
Aisha has 10 years of experience as a licensed practical nurse. She specializes in pediatric nursing. Aisha has worked in various outpatient clinics.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.70% 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 Aisha Malik, LPN, a licensed licensed practical nurse with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov