Harrisburg vs Johnstown: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Harrisburg, PA and Johnstown, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Harrisburg, PA | Johnstown, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,353▲ | $43,014 |
| Hourly Rate | $21.80▲ | $20.68 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,281▲ | $33,913 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,710▲ | $36,083 |
| 75th Percentile | $45,984 | $51,041▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $54,128 | $58,727▲ |
| Total Employed | 300▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Harrisburg, PA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnstown.
The salary gap between Harrisburg and Johnstown is $2,339 (5.44%). Harrisburg's median is -4.97% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Harrisburg spans $14,847,Johnstown spans $24,814. Johnstown 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, Harrisburg ($45,974 effective) pays 4.10% more than Johnstown ($44,162 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Harrisburg if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($45,353/year)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,974)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Johnstown if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($58,727)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Harrisburg grew 22.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.3% growth in Johnstown over the same period.
Harrisburg, PA
$35,430 (2019) → $43,517 (2025)
Johnstown, PA
$40,744 (2024) → $41,272 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Harrisburg, PA
Johnstown, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Harrisburg or Johnstown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Harrisburg and Johnstown?
Should I relocate from Harrisburg to Johnstown as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Harrisburg vs Johnstown?
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