Des Moines vs Seattle: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Des Moines, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,631 | $61,901▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.90 | $29.77▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,177 | $47,204▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,913 | $52,397▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $57,977 | $73,958▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $68,030 | $81,281▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 910▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Seattle is $14,270 (29.96%). Seattle's median is +29.71% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $30,853,Seattle spans $34,077. Seattle has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced sterile processing technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Seattle ($55,700 effective) pays 25.59% more than Des Moines ($44,349 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($61,901/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($81,281)
- ✓Larger job market (910 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $55,700)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Des Moines grew -25.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 41.8% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$61,716 (2024) → $45,702 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$41,880 (2019) → $59,395 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Des Moines or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Seattle as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Des Moines vs Seattle?
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