Canton vs Columbus: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Canton, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Canton, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,461▲ | $38,370 |
| Hourly Rate | $20.42▲ | $18.45 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,545▲ | $29,155 |
| 25th Percentile | $35,880 | $36,789▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $51,973▲ | $45,513 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,121▲ | $50,766 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Canton, GA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Canton and Columbus is $4,091 (10.66%). Canton's median is -11.03% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Canton spans $27,576,Columbus spans $21,611. Canton 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, Canton ($45,608 effective) pays 6.14% more than Columbus ($42,969 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Canton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($42,461/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($61,121)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,608)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Canton grew 15.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.5% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Canton, GA
$35,298 (2024) → $40,742 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$27,180 (2019) → $36,816 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Canton, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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