Boise vs Meridian: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Boise, ID and Meridian, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boise, ID | Meridian, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,258▲ | $43,826 |
| Hourly Rate | $21.76▲ | $21.07 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $31,729 | $34,202▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $35,655 | $36,979▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $56,496▲ | $53,271 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $68,390▲ | $66,080 |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Boise, ID offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Meridian.
The salary gap between Boise and Meridian is $1,432 (3.27%). Boise's median is -5.17% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boise spans $36,661,Meridian spans $31,878. Boise 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, Boise ($47,490 effective) pays 3.27% more than Meridian ($45,987 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boise if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($45,258/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($68,390)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,490)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Meridian if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Boise grew 4.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 4.7% growth in Meridian over the same period.
Boise, ID
$41,489 (2024) → $43,425 (2025)
Meridian, ID
$40,176 (2024) → $42,051 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Meridian, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Boise or Meridian?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boise and Meridian?
Should I relocate from Boise to Meridian as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Boise vs Meridian?
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