Madison vs Milwaukee: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Madison, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $49,625▲ | $47,824 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.86▲ | $22.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $41,582▲ | $39,100 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,295▲ | $46,914 |
| 75th Percentile | $59,300▲ | $50,186 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $60,942▲ | $58,030 |
| Total Employed | 220 | 500▲ |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Madison and Milwaukee is $1,801 (3.77%). Madison's median is +3.98% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $19,360,Milwaukee spans $18,930. Madison 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, Madison ($51,009 effective) pays 3.39% more than Milwaukee ($49,335 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($49,625/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($60,942)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $51,009)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Madison grew 25.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.1% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Madison, WI
$38,060 (2019) → $47,616 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$35,550 (2019) → $45,888 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Madison or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Madison to Milwaukee as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Madison vs Milwaukee?
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