Gilbert vs Phoenix: Licensed Practical Nurse Salary (2026)
Compare licensed practical nurse 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 | $82,303 | $82,531▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.57 | $39.68▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,320 | $66,295▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,181▲ | $71,548 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,890▲ | $87,203 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,268▲ | $99,094 |
| Total Employed | 49 | 4,450▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for licensed practical nurses, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gilbert.
The salary gap between Gilbert and Phoenix is $228 (0.28%). Phoenix's median is +21.24% compared to the US national median of $68,071.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gilbert spans $49,948,Phoenix spans $32,799. 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 ($83,556 effective) pays 4.60% 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 Gilbert if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,268)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $83,556)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($82,531/year)
- ✓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 Gilbert grew 20.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.5% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Gilbert, AZ
$64,638 (2024) → $77,865 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$55,960 (2019) → $78,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gilbert, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays licensed practical nurses more: Gilbert or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gilbert and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Gilbert to Phoenix as a licensed practical nurse?
What do entry-level licensed practical nurses earn in Gilbert 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