Helena vs Missoula: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Helena, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Helena, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $42,207 | $46,104▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $20.29 | $22.16▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,047 | $38,580▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,183 | $38,580▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $52,165▲ | $47,935 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $60,087▲ | $55,918 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Helena.
The salary gap between Helena and Missoula is $3,897 (9.23%). Missoula's median is -3.39% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Helena spans $26,040,Missoula spans $17,338. Helena 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, Missoula ($47,803 effective) pays 8.96% more than Helena ($43,874 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Helena if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($60,087)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($46,104/year)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,803)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Helena grew -0.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 40.6% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Helena, MT
$40,534 (2024) → $40,498 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$31,460 (2019) → $44,237 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Helena, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Helena or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Helena and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Helena to Missoula as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Helena vs Missoula?
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