Mequon vs Milwaukee: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Mequon, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mequon, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $44,208 | $47,824▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.25 | $22.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,322 | $39,100▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $38,879 | $46,914▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $51,573▲ | $50,186 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,928▲ | $58,030 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 500▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Mequon.
The salary gap between Mequon and Milwaukee is $3,616 (8.18%). Milwaukee's median is +0.21% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mequon spans $21,606,Milwaukee spans $18,930. Mequon 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, Milwaukee ($49,335 effective) pays 4.23% more than Mequon ($47,332 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mequon if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($58,928)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($47,824/year)
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,335)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Mequon grew 5.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.1% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Mequon, WI
$40,152 (2024) → $42,418 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$35,550 (2019) → $45,888 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mequon, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Mequon or Milwaukee?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mequon and Milwaukee?
Should I relocate from Mequon to Milwaukee as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Mequon 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