Elmhurst vs Rockford: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Elmhurst, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elmhurst, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,741 | $44,562▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.58 | $21.42▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,229 | $37,539▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $34,330 | $38,289▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $48,897▲ | $46,084 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $57,051 | $57,460▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 90▲ |
Verdict
Rockford, IL offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Elmhurst.
The salary gap between Elmhurst and Rockford is $3,821 (9.38%). 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 Elmhurst spans $24,822,Rockford spans $19,921. Elmhurst 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 15.25% more than Elmhurst ($41,958 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elmhurst if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,562/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($57,460)
- ✓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 Elmhurst grew -7.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.4% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Elmhurst, IL
$42,253 (2024) → $39,091 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$35,220 (2019) → $42,758 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elmhurst, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Elmhurst or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elmhurst and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Elmhurst to Rockford as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Elmhurst 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