Idaho Falls vs Pocatello: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Idaho Falls, ID and Pocatello, ID. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Idaho Falls, ID | Pocatello, ID |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,757▲ | $35,568 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.89▲ | $17.10 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,149▲ | $31,816 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,123▲ | $35,568 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,300▲ | $37,099 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,831▲ | $57,699 |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Idaho Falls, ID offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pocatello.
The salary gap between Idaho Falls and Pocatello is $16,189 (45.52%). Idaho Falls's median is +8.45% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Idaho Falls spans $62,682,Pocatello spans $25,883. Idaho Falls 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, Idaho Falls ($54,820 effective) pays 37.03% more than Pocatello ($40,006 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Idaho Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($51,757/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,831)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $54,820)
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Choose Pocatello if…
- ✓You prefer the Idaho area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Idaho Falls grew 69.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -15.1% growth in Pocatello over the same period.
Idaho Falls, ID
$29,370 (2019) → $49,661 (2025)
Pocatello, ID
$40,176 (2024) → $34,128 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Idaho Falls, ID
Pocatello, ID
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Idaho Falls or Pocatello?
What is the hourly rate difference between Idaho Falls and Pocatello?
Should I relocate from Idaho Falls to Pocatello as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Idaho Falls vs Pocatello?
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