Fast-growing Sun Belt city, semiconductors (TSMC, Intel). Here's how Controllers in Phoenix get paid in 2026.
How pay scales with career stage in the Phoenix metro market.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $117,800 | $89,600 | $153,200 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $146,500 | $111,300 | $190,400 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $168,400 | $128,000 | $218,900 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $202,000 | $153,600 | $262,600 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $229,000 | $174,000 | $297,700 |
Highest-paying metros for Controllers — useful if you're weighing a relocation.
Top occupations by median pay across the Phoenix metro economy.
The average Controller salary in the Phoenix metro is $168,400 per year as of 2026, with a typical range of $128,000 to $218,900 (25th–75th percentile). Top earners (90th percentile) make $277,800 or more.
Yes — Phoenix pays +2% relative to the Arizona state median for Controllers. Major metros typically concentrate higher-paying employers and command a wage premium over rural and small-city areas in the same state.
Phoenix vs. national: +3%. Phoenix pays roughly in line with the national average for Controllers. Whether that's a 'good' deal depends on local cost of living and your career stage.
In Phoenix, the median Controller salary of $168,400 typically corresponds to 5–9 years of experience (mid-level). Entry-level Controllers in Phoenix start around $117,800, while seniors (10+ years) reach $202,000 or more.
Metro medians are useful benchmarks — but your exact number depends on your experience, education, and the specific employer. Run the free calculator for a personalized read.
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