Cambridge vs Worcester: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Cambridge, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cambridge, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $59,417▲ | $57,790 |
| Hourly Rate | $28.57▲ | $27.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $43,081 | $45,934▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $47,599 | $49,045▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $73,191▲ | $58,680 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $87,600▲ | $71,917 |
| Total Employed | 22 | 200▲ |
Verdict
Cambridge, MA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Cambridge and Worcester is $1,627 (2.82%). Cambridge's median is +24.50% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cambridge spans $44,519,Worcester spans $25,983. Cambridge 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, Worcester ($56,368 effective) pays 2.93% more than Cambridge ($54,762 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cambridge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($59,417/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($87,600)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Worcester if…
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $56,368)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Cambridge grew -1.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.1% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Cambridge, MA
$57,763 (2024) → $57,011 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$47,780 (2021) → $55,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cambridge, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Cambridge or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cambridge and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Cambridge to Worcester as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Cambridge vs Worcester?
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