Jonesboro vs Van Buren: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Jonesboro, AR and Van Buren, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jonesboro, AR | Van Buren, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,359▲ | $36,955 |
| Hourly Rate | $19.41▲ | $17.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $30,887 | $30,938▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $33,433▲ | $32,194 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,004▲ | $44,973 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $59,634▲ | $52,267 |
| Total Employed | 21▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Jonesboro, AR offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Van Buren.
The salary gap between Jonesboro and Van Buren is $3,404 (9.21%). Jonesboro's median is -15.43% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jonesboro spans $28,747,Van Buren spans $21,329. Jonesboro 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, Jonesboro ($46,443 effective) pays 9.21% more than Van Buren ($42,526 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jonesboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($40,359/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($59,634)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,443)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Van Buren if…
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Jonesboro grew 29.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.3% growth in Van Buren over the same period.
Jonesboro, AR
$29,951 (2024) → $38,725 (2025)
Van Buren, AR
$27,426 (2024) → $35,459 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jonesboro, AR
Van Buren, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Jonesboro or Van Buren?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jonesboro and Van Buren?
Should I relocate from Jonesboro to Van Buren as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Jonesboro vs Van Buren?
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