Phoenix vs Scottsdale: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Scottsdale, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Scottsdale, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,265▲ | $70,733 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.56▲ | $34.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,861▲ | $47,917 |
| 25th Percentile | $67,424▲ | $57,913 |
| 75th Percentile | $89,464 | $90,142▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,280 | $109,362▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,790▲ | 44 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Scottsdale.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Scottsdale is $11,532 (16.30%). Phoenix's median is +20.73% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $47,419,Scottsdale spans $61,445. Scottsdale has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced surgical technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Phoenix ($79,625 effective) pays 10.88% more than Scottsdale ($71,810 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 ($82,265/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,790 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,625)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Scottsdale if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,362)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Phoenix grew 45.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.5% growth in Scottsdale over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$53,590 (2019) → $78,050 (2025)
Scottsdale, AZ
$60,207 (2024) → $67,109 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Scottsdale, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Phoenix or Scottsdale?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Scottsdale?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Scottsdale as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Phoenix vs Scottsdale?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jessica Thompson, BA, CST
Career Analyst
Jessica has over 10 years of experience as a surgical technologist. She specializes in orthopedic surgical procedures. Jessica works at a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.40% 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 Jessica Thompson, BA, CST, a licensed surgical technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov