How Controllers in Arizona get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical Arizona compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $115,100 | $87,500 | $149,600 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $143,100 | $108,700 | $186,000 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $164,500 | $125,000 | $213,800 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $197,400 | $150,000 | $256,500 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $223,700 | $170,000 | $290,700 |
Pay varies sharply within Arizona. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs Arizona |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phoenix | $168,400 | $128,000 | $218,900 | +2% |
Top occupations by median pay in Arizona — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Controller salary in Arizona is $164,500 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $125,000 and the 75th at $213,800.
Pay-wise, Arizona sits +1% above the national Controller median ($162,800). Pay tracks roughly with the national average — cost of living is the deciding factor for take-home purchasing power.
Senior Controllers (10–14 years of experience) in Arizona earn around $197,400 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $223,700 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), Arizona ranks 24th for Controller pay. The highest-paying state pays around $228,000 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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