Fontana vs Riverside: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Fontana, CA and Riverside, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fontana, CA | Riverside, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,193▲ | $59,591 |
| Hourly Rate | $30.38▲ | $28.64 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $44,619 | $44,913▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $50,027▲ | $49,715 |
| 75th Percentile | $79,139▲ | $71,276 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $95,928▲ | $92,097 |
| Total Employed | 32 | 800▲ |
Verdict
Fontana, CA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Riverside.
The salary gap between Fontana and Riverside is $3,602 (6.04%). Fontana's median is +32.41% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fontana spans $51,309,Riverside spans $47,184. Fontana 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, Riverside ($55,984 effective) pays 0.20% more than Fontana ($55,874 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fontana if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($63,193/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($95,928)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Riverside if…
- ✓Larger job market (800 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $55,984)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Fontana grew -16.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 20.8% growth in Riverside over the same period.
Fontana, CA
$72,922 (2024) → $60,634 (2025)
Riverside, CA
$47,320 (2019) → $57,178 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fontana, CA
Riverside, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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