Phoenix vs Glendale: Dental Assistant Salary (2026)
Compare dental assistant salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Glendale, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Glendale, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,322 | $51,459▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $24.67 | $24.74▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,689▲ | $37,406 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,331▲ | $45,755 |
| 75th Percentile | $60,461 | $62,873▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,245 | $68,124▲ |
| Total Employed | 6,270▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Glendale, AZ offers better overall compensation for dental assistants, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Phoenix.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Glendale is $137 (0.27%). Glendale's median is +3.79% compared to the US national median of $49,579.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $19,556,Glendale spans $30,718. Glendale has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced dental assistants.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Glendale ($52,243 effective) pays 5.17% more than Phoenix ($49,675 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Larger job market (6,270 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Glendale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($51,459/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($68,124)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,243)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, dental assistant salaries in Phoenix grew 13.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.9% growth in Glendale over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$44,000 (2019) → $49,760 (2025)
Glendale, AZ
$47,582 (2024) → $49,892 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Glendale, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays dental assistants more: Phoenix or Glendale?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Glendale?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Glendale as a dental assistant?
What do entry-level dental assistants earn in Phoenix vs Glendale?
Related Comparisons
Written by Maria Gonzalez, CDA, RDH
Career Analyst
Maria Gonzalez has over 10 years of experience in dental assisting. She specializes in pediatric dentistry. She works in a private dental practice.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.14% 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 Maria Gonzalez, CDA, RDH, a licensed dental assistant with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov