Duluth vs Ramsey: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Duluth, MN and Ramsey, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Duluth, MN | Ramsey, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,824▲ | $44,007 |
| Hourly Rate | $22.99▲ | $21.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,919▲ | $33,321 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,223▲ | $37,717 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,088 | $54,398▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $56,479 | $64,057▲ |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Duluth, MN offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Ramsey.
The salary gap between Duluth and Ramsey is $3,817 (8.67%). Duluth's median is +0.21% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Duluth spans $18,560,Ramsey spans $30,736. Ramsey 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, Duluth ($53,875 effective) pays 20.59% more than Ramsey ($44,677 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Duluth if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($47,824/year)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $53,875)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Ramsey if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($64,057)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Duluth grew 15.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -12.1% growth in Ramsey over the same period.
Duluth, MN
$39,780 (2019) → $45,888 (2025)
Ramsey, MN
$48,027 (2024) → $42,225 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Duluth, MN
Ramsey, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Duluth or Ramsey?
What is the hourly rate difference between Duluth and Ramsey?
Should I relocate from Duluth to Ramsey as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Duluth vs Ramsey?
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