Phoenix vs Gilbert: Electrical Engineer Salary (2026)
Compare electrical engineer salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Gilbert, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Gilbert, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,779 | $105,384▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.41 | $50.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,318▲ | $67,249 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,998▲ | $81,187 |
| 75th Percentile | $136,051▲ | $134,891 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,561▲ | $163,345 |
| Total Employed | 3,420▲ | 49 |
Verdict
Phoenix and Gilbert are closely matched on overall electrical engineer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Gilbert is $2,605 (2.53%). Gilbert's median is -15.72% compared to the US national median of $125,033.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $93,243,Gilbert spans $96,096. Gilbert has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced electrical engineers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Gilbert ($106,989 effective) pays 7.55% more than Phoenix ($99,480 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,561)
- ✓Larger job market (3,420 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Gilbert if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,384/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,989)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, electrical engineer salaries in Phoenix grew 0.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -10.1% growth in Gilbert over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$98,670 (2019) → $99,160 (2025)
Gilbert, AZ
$113,116 (2024) → $101,673 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Gilbert, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays electrical engineers more: Phoenix or Gilbert?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Gilbert?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Gilbert as a electrical engineer?
What do entry-level electrical engineers earn in Phoenix vs Gilbert?
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Written by Amina Patel, MEng, PE
Career Analyst
Amina has over 10 years of experience in power systems engineering. She works at a utility company specializing in renewable energy integration.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.65% 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 Amina Patel, MEng, PE, a licensed electrical engineer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov