Phoenix vs Surprise: Real Estate Agent Salary (2026)
Compare real estate agent salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Surprise, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,803▲ | $57,893 |
| Hourly Rate | $29.72▲ | $27.83 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,195 | $36,805▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $41,940 | $44,064▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,684▲ | $74,102 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,984▲ | $89,733 |
| Total Employed | 3,930▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for real estate agents, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Surprise.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Surprise is $3,910 (6.75%). Phoenix's median is +15.26% compared to the US national median of $53,622.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $81,789,Surprise spans $52,928. Phoenix 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 ($59,819 effective) pays 1.78% more than Surprise ($58,775 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,803/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,984)
- ✓Larger job market (3,930 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $59,819)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Surprise if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, real estate agent salaries in Phoenix grew 56.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -14.7% growth in Surprise over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$38,960 (2019) → $60,890 (2025)
Surprise, AZ
$66,835 (2024) → $57,037 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Surprise, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays real estate agents more: Phoenix or Surprise?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Surprise?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Surprise as a real estate agent?
What do entry-level real estate agents earn in Phoenix vs Surprise?
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Written by Maria Gonzalez, REALTOR®
Career Analyst
Maria has 10 years of experience as a real estate agent. She specializes in residential properties. She works with a large brokerage in Texas.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 1.50% 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 Maria Gonzalez, REALTOR®, a licensed real estate agent with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov