Apple Valley vs Minneapolis: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Apple Valley, MN and Minneapolis, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Apple Valley, MN | Minneapolis, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $43,753 | $53,447▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.03 | $25.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,859 | $45,413▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,525 | $49,105▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $54,557 | $60,231▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $63,408▲ | $61,782 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 920▲ |
Verdict
Minneapolis, MN offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Apple Valley.
The salary gap between Apple Valley and Minneapolis is $9,694 (22.16%). Minneapolis's median is +11.99% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Apple Valley spans $29,549,Minneapolis spans $16,369. Apple Valley 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, Minneapolis ($50,988 effective) pays 14.79% more than Apple Valley ($44,419 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Apple Valley if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($63,408)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Minneapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($53,447/year)
- ✓Larger job market (920 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $50,988)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Apple Valley grew -12.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 12.6% growth in Minneapolis over the same period.
Apple Valley, MN
$47,749 (2024) → $41,981 (2025)
Minneapolis, MN
$45,530 (2019) → $51,283 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Apple Valley, MN
Minneapolis, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Apple Valley or Minneapolis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Apple Valley and Minneapolis?
Should I relocate from Apple Valley to Minneapolis as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Apple Valley vs Minneapolis?
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