Ann Arbor vs Kalamazoo: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Kalamazoo, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Kalamazoo, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $50,056▲ | $43,272 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.06▲ | $20.80 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,260▲ | $36,839 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,705▲ | $37,369 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,056▲ | $49,236 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $50,056 | $58,269▲ |
| Total Employed | 230▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kalamazoo.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo is $6,784 (15.68%). Ann Arbor's median is +4.89% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $9,796,Kalamazoo spans $21,430. Kalamazoo has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced sterile processing technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Ann Arbor ($49,619 effective) pays 8.75% more than Kalamazoo ($45,626 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($50,056/year)
- ✓Larger job market (230 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,619)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Kalamazoo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($58,269)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Ann Arbor grew 9.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.3% growth in Kalamazoo over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$43,760 (2019) → $48,029 (2025)
Kalamazoo, MI
$36,970 (2019) → $41,520 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Kalamazoo, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Ann Arbor or Kalamazoo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Kalamazoo?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Kalamazoo as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Ann Arbor vs Kalamazoo?
Related Comparisons
Written by Amina Patel, CCSVP
Career Analyst
Amina has 8 years of experience in sterile processing. She specialized in instrument sterilization techniques in a large hospital. Amina analyzes career trends for sterile processing technicians.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.22% 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 Amina Patel, CCSVP, a licensed sterile processing technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov