Buckeye vs Phoenix: Veterinary Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare veterinary technologist and technician salaries between Buckeye, AZ and Phoenix, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Buckeye, AZ | Phoenix, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,929 | $48,941▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.08 | $23.53▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,089 | $40,649▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $38,479 | $48,277▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $54,674 | $59,470▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,808 | $62,182▲ |
| Total Employed | 19 | 2,760▲ |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for veterinary technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Buckeye.
The salary gap between Buckeye and Phoenix is $3,012 (6.56%). Phoenix's median is -2.09% compared to the US national median of $49,986.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Buckeye spans $25,719,Phoenix spans $21,533. Buckeye 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, Phoenix ($47,370 effective) pays 1.59% more than Buckeye ($46,628 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Buckeye if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,941/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($62,182)
- ✓Larger job market (2,760 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,370)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, veterinary technologist and technician salaries in Buckeye grew 12.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.2% growth in Phoenix over the same period.
Buckeye, AZ
$38,724 (2024) → $43,535 (2025)
Phoenix, AZ
$36,470 (2019) → $46,390 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Buckeye, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays veterinary technologist and technicians more: Buckeye or Phoenix?
What is the hourly rate difference between Buckeye and Phoenix?
Should I relocate from Buckeye to Phoenix as a veterinary technologist and technician?
What do entry-level veterinary technologist and technicians earn in Buckeye vs Phoenix?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, CVT
Career Analyst
Jordan has 10 years of experience in veterinary technology. They specialize in emergency care. Jordan has worked in both clinic and hospital settings.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.50% 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 Jordan Lee, CVT, a licensed veterinary technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov