DeKalb vs Rockford: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between DeKalb, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | DeKalb, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $41,442 | $44,562▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.93 | $21.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $33,933 | $37,539▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $35,769 | $38,289▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $49,006▲ | $46,084 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $60,850▲ | $57,460 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to DeKalb.
The salary gap between DeKalb and Rockford is $3,120 (7.53%). Rockford's median is -6.63% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in DeKalb spans $26,917,Rockford spans $19,921. DeKalb 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, Rockford ($48,356 effective) pays 13.30% more than DeKalb ($42,680 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose DeKalb if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($60,850)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,562/year)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $48,356)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in DeKalb grew -7.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.4% growth in Rockford over the same period.
DeKalb, IL
$42,981 (2024) → $39,764 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$35,220 (2019) → $42,758 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
DeKalb, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: DeKalb or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between DeKalb and Rockford?
Should I relocate from DeKalb to Rockford as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in DeKalb vs Rockford?
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