Lebanon vs Memphis: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Lebanon, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lebanon, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,022 | $45,503▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.65 | $21.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,600 | $36,739▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $37,188▲ | $37,089 |
| 75th Percentile | $54,278 | $57,419▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $63,445▲ | $60,331 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 280▲ |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lebanon.
The salary gap between Lebanon and Memphis is $481 (1.07%). Memphis's median is -4.65% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lebanon spans $28,845,Memphis spans $23,592. Lebanon 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, Memphis ($49,364 effective) pays 0.65% more than Lebanon ($49,044 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lebanon if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($63,445)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($45,503/year)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,364)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Lebanon grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.7% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Lebanon, TN
$36,030 (2024) → $43,199 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$33,400 (2019) → $43,661 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lebanon, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Lebanon or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lebanon and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Lebanon to Memphis as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Lebanon vs Memphis?
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