Chesapeake vs Norfolk: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Norfolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $39,061 | $39,490▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $18.78 | $18.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $27,274 | $28,085▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $32,946▲ | $31,507 |
| 75th Percentile | $49,997▲ | $49,696 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $60,543▲ | $60,517 |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 54 |
Verdict
Chesapeake and Norfolk are closely matched on overall sterile processing technician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Norfolk is $429 (1.10%). Norfolk's median is -17.25% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chesapeake spans $33,269,Norfolk spans $32,432. Chesapeake 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, Norfolk ($38,266 effective) pays 1.10% more than Chesapeake ($37,850 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chesapeake if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($60,543)
- ✓Larger job market (63 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Norfolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($39,490/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $38,266)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Chesapeake grew -20.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -20.2% growth in Norfolk over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$46,952 (2024) → $37,479 (2025)
Norfolk, VA
$47,468 (2024) → $37,891 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Norfolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Chesapeake or Norfolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chesapeake and Norfolk?
Should I relocate from Chesapeake to Norfolk as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Chesapeake vs Norfolk?
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