Top 100 Highest Paying Jobs In Arizona (2025)

Arizona’s job market combines strong growth, diversity, and opportunity — especially in healthcare, technology, and management. With booming industries like aerospace, renewable energy, and semiconductor manufacturing, many professionals are earning well above the national average.

Below is a comprehensive list of the Top 100 highest-paying jobs in Arizona, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and other reputable salary aggregators. Each entry includes salary estimates, job security ratings, and a brief rationale for why the role ranks among the state’s best-paying careers.

Top 100 Highest-Paying Jobs in Arizona

1. Anesthesiologists

Anesthesiologists are among the highest earners in Arizona, commanding salaries that often exceed $300,000 annually. Their critical role in administering anesthesia and monitoring patients during surgery makes them indispensable in hospitals and surgical centers. With Arizona’s expanding healthcare infrastructure and growing population, demand for surgical procedures continues to rise, ensuring strong job stability.

The position requires over a decade of education and specialized medical training, which contributes to its high pay. Anesthesiologists also work under high-pressure conditions, where precision and rapid decision-making are vital — factors that justify their elite professional status and significant compensation.

2. Surgeons

Surgeons in Arizona enjoy exceptionally high salaries due to their advanced skills, specialized training, and the high stakes of their work. Performing intricate operations to repair or remove diseased tissues, they are central to medical care in both urban hospitals and regional centers. Arizona’s growing elderly population and advancements in surgical technology have fueled strong demand for qualified surgeons.

The job requires long hours, years of education, and constant focus under pressure. Whether in orthopedics, neurosurgery, or general surgery, these professionals earn top compensation for their expertise, responsibility, and the life-saving nature of their daily work.

3. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons specialize in complex dental and facial procedures, from reconstructive surgery to correcting jaw deformities. In Arizona, they earn high incomes due to the state’s strong healthcare demand and a shortage of dental specialists in some regions. Their work bridges both medical and dental disciplines, requiring dental school, surgical residency, and board certification.

They often operate private clinics or collaborate with hospitals, offering aesthetic, functional, and emergency services. The combination of surgical precision, extensive education, and patient impact makes this one of Arizona’s most respected — and well-compensated — medical professions.

4. Obstetricians and Gynecologists (OB/GYNs)

OB/GYNs rank among Arizona’s best-paid professionals, earning well over $200,000 annually. They specialize in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy, and childbirth — essential services in a fast-growing state with a youthful population. These physicians manage both routine and complex cases, including high-risk pregnancies. Their demanding schedules, unpredictable hours, and life-critical responsibilities justify their high pay.

In urban centers like Phoenix and Tucson, OB/GYNs often combine hospital work with private practice, further boosting earnings. The field’s blend of emotional reward, specialized skill, and medical urgency ensures continued demand and one of the most stable career paths in Arizona.

5. Orthodontists

Orthodontists specialize in diagnosing and correcting misaligned teeth and jaws, improving both function and aesthetics. In Arizona, they benefit from rising demand for cosmetic dentistry and pediatric orthodontic care. Typically earning between $190,000 and $290,000, orthodontists enjoy some of the highest pay in the dental field.

Their work requires completion of dental school plus several years of orthodontic residency. Many operate private practices, which allows for flexible hours and strong income potential. The profession’s mix of science, precision, and aesthetic enhancement — coupled with Arizona’s growing population — makes orthodontics both profitable and professionally fulfilling.

6. Psychiatrists

Psychiatrists in Arizona command high salaries, reflecting both their medical expertise and the increasing societal focus on mental health. With annual incomes often above $200,000, they diagnose and treat disorders such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. Demand is especially strong in rural areas and underserved communities, where mental health services remain limited. Becoming a psychiatrist requires medical school, residency, and board certification.

They may work in hospitals, private practice, or telehealth, offering flexibility and consistent income. Their vital role in improving quality of life and addressing the state’s mental health crisis ensures top-tier pay and enduring job security.

7. Physicians (All Other Specialties)

This category includes internal medicine doctors, general practitioners, and medical specialists outside primary care. In Arizona, their salaries range from $180,000 to $260,000, depending on specialization. Population growth, aging demographics, and rising chronic health conditions have intensified demand for physicians statewide. Many work in private clinics or multi-specialty groups, serving both urban and rural populations.

The profession requires rigorous education, long hours, and complex decision-making, but offers exceptional stability and social impact. Whether treating everyday illnesses or managing long-term conditions, Arizona’s physicians remain central to a robust healthcare system — earning pay that reflects their essential expertise.

8. Chief Executives

Chief executives (CEOs) in Arizona earn between $150,000 and $400,000 or more annually, depending on the size and profitability of their organizations. They are responsible for strategic direction, leadership, and overall business performance. With Phoenix emerging as a regional business hub, opportunities in finance, technology, and healthcare have grown significantly. Executive compensation often includes performance bonuses, stock options, and incentives, making earnings highly variable.

The role demands vision, decision-making under pressure, and strong communication skills. As Arizona attracts corporate headquarters and startups, top executives remain among the most powerful — and highest-paid — professionals in the state.

9. Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs)

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNAs) play a crucial role in Arizona’s healthcare system, administering anesthesia and managing patient comfort during surgery. Their specialized skills allow them to work independently or alongside anesthesiologists, especially in rural hospitals. Earning between $170,000 and $210,000 annually, CRNAs are among the highest-paid advanced practice nurses.

The position requires a master’s or doctoral degree and board certification. Arizona’s emphasis on expanding medical services and its physician shortage have made CRNAs indispensable. Their blend of autonomy, expertise, and responsibility ensures consistent demand and one of the most lucrative nursing careers in the state.

10. Pediatricians

Pediatricians care for children’s physical, emotional, and developmental health from infancy through adolescence. In Arizona, their salaries average between $160,000 and $230,000 annually. With the state’s growing family population and continued urban expansion, pediatric healthcare demand is strong. These physicians diagnose illnesses, administer vaccines, and monitor developmental milestones.

Many combine hospital practice with outpatient clinics, providing both stability and variety. The work requires compassion, patience, and extensive medical training. Pediatricians are vital to long-term community health, ensuring that Arizona’s youngest residents receive quality care — a responsibility that comes with excellent compensation and career longevity.

11. Architectural and Engineering Managers

Architectural and engineering managers oversee technical teams that design and develop Arizona’s infrastructure, aerospace projects, and renewable energy systems. Earning between $140,000 and $180,000 annually, they play strategic roles in planning, budgeting, and supervising complex projects. Arizona’s tech and defense industries — particularly around Phoenix and Tucson — provide abundant opportunities for these professionals.

Their high salaries reflect advanced education, leadership responsibility, and cross-disciplinary expertise. As Arizona continues its rapid expansion in manufacturing and construction, demand for skilled engineering managers remains strong, blending creativity, precision, and management in one of the state’s most rewarding careers.

12. Airline Pilots and Copilots

Airline pilots in Arizona enjoy high incomes, typically ranging from $130,000 to over $200,000 annually. The state’s aviation industry is thriving, with major airports and training academies in Phoenix, Mesa, and Tucson. Pilots undergo years of rigorous training, obtaining commercial licenses and thousands of flight hours.

Their responsibilities include navigating aircraft, ensuring passenger safety, and managing long-haul or regional routes. The job demands technical skill, quick decision-making, and excellent physical and mental health. As Arizona remains a hub for both passenger and cargo aviation, pilots continue to enjoy one of the most respected and well-compensated careers available.

13. Computer and Information Systems Managers

Computer and Information Systems Managers lead Arizona’s digital transformation efforts, overseeing IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software integration. They typically earn between $125,000 and $165,000 per year. With Phoenix emerging as a growing tech hub, demand for experienced IT leaders has surged across industries such as finance, healthcare, and education.

The role requires strong analytical ability, leadership, and up-to-date knowledge of emerging technologies. Many oversee large teams responsible for company-wide data systems. As organizations continue to modernize and expand digital operations, these managers remain key drivers of efficiency, innovation, and profitability in Arizona’s evolving economy.

14. Pharmacists

Pharmacists in Arizona earn between $120,000 and $150,000 annually, serving as essential healthcare providers who ensure patients receive and understand their medications safely. They work in retail pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics, providing both prescriptions and medical advice. Arizona’s growing population and aging demographic have maintained strong demand for pharmaceutical services.

The role requires a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) degree and state licensure. Pharmacists combine scientific expertise with direct patient interaction, bridging the gap between physicians and the public. Their critical position in disease prevention and medication management keeps them among the state’s most stable and respected professions.

15. Podiatrists

Podiatrists specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions of the feet, ankles, and lower legs — areas that often affect mobility and quality of life. In Arizona, they earn between $115,000 and $155,000 annually. The state’s warm climate and aging population contribute to consistent demand for podiatric care, especially in diabetic treatment and sports medicine.

Podiatrists may perform surgeries, prescribe therapies, and fit orthotics. The role requires a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) degree and residency training. Their ability to combine surgical precision with preventive care places them among Arizona’s best-paid and most valuable healthcare professionals.

16. Marketing Managers

Marketing managers in Arizona oversee campaigns that shape brand image, drive customer engagement, and boost sales. Earning between $110,000 and $160,000 annually, they are pivotal in industries such as real estate, technology, and healthcare. The job requires creativity, strategic thinking, and data-driven decision-making. Arizona’s dynamic economy, particularly in Phoenix and Scottsdale, offers abundant opportunities for marketing professionals who can blend digital innovation with traditional media.

Successful managers balance leadership with analytical insight, ensuring their teams deliver measurable business growth. Their ability to translate creativity into revenue makes this one of Arizona’s highest-paying corporate roles.

17. Financial Managers

Financial managers in Arizona oversee budgeting, investments, and risk management for corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies. They typically earn between $110,000 and $150,000 annually. Their role is crucial in guiding organizations toward profitability and financial sustainability. With Arizona’s expanding economy and influx of new businesses, demand for experienced financial managers continues to grow.

The position requires analytical expertise, strategic vision, and compliance knowledge. Many hold certifications such as CPA or CFA. As local industries mature, financial managers play a key role in shaping Arizona’s business landscape — balancing risk and opportunity while earning impressive compensation.

18. Natural Sciences Managers

Natural sciences managers coordinate research and development in fields like biotechnology, environmental science, and materials engineering. In Arizona, they earn between $105,000 and $145,000 annually, reflecting the state’s investment in innovation and sustainability. These professionals oversee scientists, manage budgets, and ensure projects meet both technical and regulatory standards.

Tucson and Phoenix host numerous biotech firms and defense contractors that rely on their expertise. A background in scientific research combined with management skills is essential. As Arizona positions itself as a regional hub for scientific advancement, natural sciences managers remain indispensable and well-compensated for their leadership and vision.

19. Sales Managers

Sales managers in Arizona lead teams that drive revenue growth across industries such as real estate, technology, and manufacturing. With annual earnings between $100,000 and $150,000 (often more with commissions), they rank among the state’s highest-paid professionals. Their success hinges on leadership, strategic sales planning, and performance management.

In Arizona’s competitive business climate, top sales managers use data analytics and relationship-building to achieve targets. They often enjoy performance-based bonuses and flexible schedules. The role’s mix of leadership and measurable impact on profit ensures consistent demand — making sales management a dynamic and lucrative career path statewide.

20. Petroleum Engineers

Petroleum engineers in Arizona design and oversee processes for extracting oil and gas, although many work with mining and alternative energy operations due to the state’s resource profile. They earn between $100,000 and $140,000 annually. Their work involves complex problem-solving, field supervision, and advanced modeling techniques.

While Arizona’s oil output is limited, its energy infrastructure and mining industries sustain demand for engineers with transferable expertise. The role requires a strong background in geology, chemistry, and engineering. Petroleum engineers enjoy high pay due to the technical difficulty and global importance of their work — skills always valued in Arizona’s energy sector.

The Top Tier: Highest Paying Occupations in Arizona

These roles represent the peak of professional earnings, typically requiring advanced degrees (MD, JD, MBA) or specialized expertise.

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
1 Anesthesiologists $230,000 – $350,000+ Very High Top of the medical field, critical for hospitals and surgical centers. High barrier to entry.
2 Surgeons $220,000 – $340,000+ Very High Specialized surgical skill demands premium compensation. High demand in metro areas.
3 Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons $210,000 – $320,000+ High Highly specialized dental surgeons. Requires residency after dental school.
4 Obstetricians and Gynecologists $200,000 – $300,000+ Very High Essential care for women. High demand in a growing state with a young population.
5 Orthodontists $190,000 – $290,000+ High Specialized dental care. High earning potential in private practice.
6 Psychiatrists $190,000 – $270,000+ Very High Critical shortage area. High demand for mental health services supports strong compensation.
7 Physicians (All Other) $180,000 – $260,000+ Very High Includes Internists, Family Medicine, etc. High demand across the state.
8 Chief Executives $150,000 – $400,000+ Medium Highly variable, tied to company performance. High in Phoenix/Tucson corporate sectors.
9 Nurse Anesthetists $170,000 – $210,000 Very High Advanced practice nurses with high autonomy. Critical for surgical services.
10 Pediatricians $160,000 – $230,000 Very High High demand in a family-oriented, growing state.

High-Earning Management and STEM Roles

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
11 Architectural and Engineering Managers $140,000 – $180,000 High Lead technical teams in Arizona’s booming tech and aerospace sectors.
12 Airline Pilots, Copilots $130,000 – $200,000+ High Arizona hosts major aviation hubs; training-intensive but highly rewarding.
13 Computer and Information Systems Managers $125,000 – $165,000 Very High Direct tech infrastructure and digital strategy across industries.
14 Pharmacists $120,000 – $150,000 High Consistent demand in hospitals and retail settings.
15 Podiatrists $115,000 – $155,000 High Vital for diabetic and geriatric care; strong patient demand.
16 Marketing Managers $110,000 – $160,000+ High Drive sales and branding; key in tech and real estate industries.
17 Financial Managers $110,000 – $150,000+ Very High Manage organizational financial performance; stable across industries.
18 Natural Sciences Managers $105,000 – $145,000 High Oversee research and innovation in biotech and defense.
19 Sales Managers $100,000 – $150,000+ High Drive corporate revenue growth. Common in tech and manufacturing.
20 Petroleum Engineers $100,000 – $140,000 Medium Linked to Arizona’s mining and energy sectors. High pay but cyclical.

Professional and Technical Careers

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
21 Lawyers $95,000 – $160,000+ Medium High-paying specialties in corporate, immigration, and IP law.
22 Human Resources Managers $95,000 – $130,000 High Oversee talent strategy and compliance.
23 Compensation and Benefits Managers $95,000 – $125,000 High Critical for workforce retention and equity.
24 Physician Assistants $105,000 – $135,000 Very High Expanding scope of practice in Arizona.
25 Nurse Practitioners $100,000 – $130,000 Very High Filling the primary care gap; high autonomy.
26 Actuaries $90,000 – $120,000 Very High Risk modeling in insurance and finance.
27 Optometrists $90,000 – $120,000 High Stable demand due to aging demographics.
28 Data Scientists $90,000 – $125,000 Very High High demand in finance, logistics, and healthcare analytics.
29 Veterinarians $85,000 – $120,000+ High Essential for pet and livestock health.
30 Political Scientists $85,000 – $115,000 Medium Limited but prestigious roles in policy and academia.

STEM, Engineering, and Analytical Fields

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
31 Training and Development Managers $85,000 – $115,000 High Corporate training leadership.
32 Advertising and Promotions Managers $85,000 – $120,000 Medium-High Strong role in marketing agencies.
33 Economists $80,000 – $110,000 Medium Analyze data and trends for public and private sectors.
34 Public Relations Managers $80,000 – $110,000 Medium-High Corporate image management; key during crises.
35 Physical Therapists $80,000 – $105,000 Very High Rising need due to aging population.
36 Industrial Production Managers $80,000 – $110,000 High Core manufacturing leadership.
37 Computer Hardware Engineers $80,000 – $115,000 High Crucial for semiconductor and device manufacturing.
38 Purchasing Managers $80,000 – $110,000 Medium-High Supply chain leadership role.
39 Management Analysts $75,000 – $110,000 High Efficiency experts for business performance.
40 Information Security Analysts $75,000 – $110,000 Very High Protect systems from cyber threats.

Mid- to Upper-Income Careers

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
41 Biomedical Engineers $75,000 – $105,000 High Develop medical equipment and devices; strong presence in Phoenix biotech sector.
42 Software Developers $75,000 – $130,000+ Very High Core of Arizona’s growing tech industry; high remote and hybrid opportunities.
43 Electrical Engineers $75,000 – $115,000 High Power, electronics, and semiconductor manufacturing roles are plentiful.
44 Mechanical Engineers $70,000 – $110,000 High Aerospace and renewable energy projects sustain strong pay.
45 Project Management Specialists $70,000 – $115,000 Very High Needed across construction, tech, and energy sectors.
46 Occupational Therapists $70,000 – $100,000 Very High Increasing demand for rehabilitation and aging-related care.
47 Database Administrators $70,000 – $110,000 High Vital for data-driven industries; cloud-management skills increase pay.
48 Construction Managers $70,000 – $120,000 High Booming real-estate growth keeps this field lucrative.
49 Aerospace Engineers $80,000 – $125,000 High Arizona’s aerospace and defense hubs (Mesa, Tucson) sustain strong demand.
50 Health Services Managers $80,000 – $120,000 Very High Manage hospitals and clinics; expanding healthcare infrastructure.

Skilled Specialists and Technological Roles

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
51 Chemical Engineers $75,000 – $110,000 Medium-High Work in materials, manufacturing, and water treatment industries.
52 Radiation Therapists $75,000 – $105,000 Very High Vital for cancer treatment; hospital demand stable.
53 Geoscientists $75,000 – $110,000 Medium Mining and environmental assessment fields sustain demand.
54 Logisticians $70,000 – $105,000 Very High Core in Arizona’s logistics corridor (I-10 corridor).
55 Power Plant Operators $70,000 – $100,000 High Stable energy infrastructure ensures solid pay.
56 Elevator Installers and Repairers $75,000 – $120,000 High Skilled trade with limited qualified workers; strong unions.
57 Web Developers $70,000 – $105,000 High Expanding digital business ecosystem across Arizona.
58 Aviation Inspectors $75,000 – $110,000 Medium-High Crucial for flight safety; specialized technical training.
59 Mining and Geological Engineers $75,000 – $115,000 Medium Arizona’s copper mining supports consistent employment.
60 Mathematicians and Statisticians $70,000 – $110,000 High Data-heavy sectors seek analytical experts.

Upper-Middle Income and Specialized Roles

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
61 Dental Hygienists $70,000 – $100,000 Very High Stable healthcare role; strong employment growth.
62 Detectives and Criminal Investigators $70,000 – $100,000 High Law-enforcement specialization with higher pay.
63 Aircraft Mechanics $65,000 – $95,000 High Key role in aviation maintenance and safety.
64 Industrial Engineers $70,000 – $105,000 Very High Optimize systems and operations across industries.
65 Environmental Engineers $70,000 – $100,000 High Rising importance in water conservation and waste control.
66 Occupational Health and Safety Specialists $70,000 – $95,000 High Ensure workplace compliance and safety in industrial zones.
67 Real Estate Brokers $65,000 – $150,000+ Medium Commission-based; booming property market drives income.
68 Multimedia Artists and Animators $65,000 – $100,000 Medium-High Growing media and entertainment sectors.
69 Radiologic Technologists $65,000 – $95,000 Very High Diagnostic imaging essential in all hospitals.
70 Financial Analysts $65,000 – $110,000 Very High Core analytical roles for investments and risk.

Technical, Trade, and Infrastructure Careers

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
71 Electricians $65,000 – $100,000 Very High Construction surge keeps electricians in demand.
72 Boilermakers $65,000 – $95,000 Medium-High Skilled metalworkers for energy and industrial systems.
73 Plumbers, Pipefitters, Steamfitters $60,000 – $95,000 Very High Essential trade; consistent work across sectors.
74 Diagnostic Medical Sonographers $65,000 – $90,000 Very High Non-invasive imaging profession with stable employment.
75 Commercial Pilots (Non-Airline) $65,000 – $100,000 High Charter, cargo, and agricultural flight operations.
76 Insurance Underwriters $60,000 – $95,000 Medium-High Analyze risk in banking and finance.
77 Environmental Scientists $65,000 – $95,000 High Key role in Arizona’s sustainability initiatives.
78 Police and Sheriff’s Patrol Officers $60,000 – $90,000 Very High Reliable government employment; benefits boost overall value.
79 Fire Inspectors and Investigators $60,000 – $90,000 High Fire prevention expertise highly valued in hot, dry climates.
80 Respiratory Therapists $60,000 – $90,000 Very High Demand boosted by respiratory illness awareness post-pandemic.

Solid-Income Careers (Entry to Mid-Level Professionals)

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
81 Paralegals and Legal Assistants $55,000 – $85,000 High Legal support professionals essential in busy law firms.
82 Construction Inspectors $55,000 – $90,000 High Ensure quality and code compliance on major builds.
83 Registered Nurses $60,000 – $95,000 Very High Backbone of the healthcare system.
84 Computer Support Specialists $55,000 – $85,000 High IT troubleshooting for small businesses and large systems.
85 Public Relations Specialists $55,000 – $85,000 Medium-High Manage communication and media presence.
86 Loan Officers $55,000 – $90,000 High Real-estate lending drives strong income potential.
87 Claims Adjusters, Examiners, Investigators $55,000 – $85,000 Medium-High Insurance sector demand steady.
88 Real Estate Appraisers $55,000 – $90,000 Medium-High Valuation expertise key to mortgage industry.
89 Social and Community Service Managers $55,000 – $85,000 Very High Essential for non-profits and state agencies.
90 Court Reporters and Captioners $55,000 – $85,000 High Legal and broadcast demand ensures consistent work.

Emerging and Growth-Driven Roles

# Job Title Estimated Salary Range Job Security Key Notes & Rationale
91 Wind Turbine Technicians $55,000 – $85,000 Very High Clean-energy expansion brings strong wage growth.
92 Solar Photovoltaic Installers $55,000 – $85,000 Very High Arizona’s solar boom drives increasing pay.
93 Truck Drivers (Heavy and Tractor-Trailer) $55,000 – $85,000 High Integral to logistics network; long-haul drivers earn more.
94 Emergency Management Directors $60,000 – $90,000 High Disaster response coordination; critical for state resilience.
95 Technical Writers $55,000 – $85,000 High Needed for tech, software, and engineering documentation.
96 Surveying and Mapping Technicians $50,000 – $80,000 Medium-High Construction and land development rely on this expertise.
97 Highway Maintenance Supervisors $55,000 – $85,000 High Infrastructure spending keeps job market steady.
98 Police Detectives (Supervisory Level) $70,000 – $105,000 High Senior roles in law enforcement with overtime and hazard pay.
99 Funeral Home Managers $55,000 – $90,000 Medium-High Specialized service sector with consistent demand.
100 Commercial Divers $55,000 – $100,000 Medium Underwater maintenance and inspection work; specialized but lucrative.

Closing

Arizona’s economy rewards both education and specialized skill. From surgeons and executives at the top to skilled trades and renewable-energy specialists further down, the diversity of high-paying jobs reflects a balanced, resilient market.

Healthcare, engineering, and management dominate earnings, while technology, clean energy, and construction continue to expand opportunities. Whether pursuing advanced degrees or technical training, Arizona offers a clear path to financial success — proving that opportunity in the Grand Canyon State runs as deep as its desert horizons.

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