Central Falls vs Providence: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Central Falls, RI and Providence, RI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central Falls, RI | Providence, RI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,483 | $48,955▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $20.43 | $23.53▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,138 | $39,620▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,698 | $45,413▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $50,506 | $58,660▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,156 | $62,532▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 340▲ |
Verdict
Providence, RI offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Central Falls.
The salary gap between Central Falls and Providence is $6,472 (15.23%). Providence's median is +2.58% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central Falls spans $23,018,Providence spans $22,912. Central Falls 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, Providence ($48,102 effective) pays 13.79% more than Central Falls ($42,272 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central Falls if…
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Choose Providence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,955/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($62,532)
- ✓Larger job market (340 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $48,102)
- ✓You prefer the Rhode Island area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Central Falls grew -4.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 9.4% growth in Providence over the same period.
Central Falls, RI
$42,655 (2024) → $40,763 (2025)
Providence, RI
$42,920 (2019) → $46,973 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central Falls, RI
Providence, RI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Central Falls or Providence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central Falls and Providence?
Should I relocate from Central Falls to Providence as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Central Falls vs Providence?
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