Milwaukee vs Waukesha: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Milwaukee, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Milwaukee, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,824 | $48,427▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.99 | $23.28▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,100▲ | $36,181 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,914▲ | $39,456 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,186 | $58,279▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,030 | $68,687▲ |
| Total Employed | 500▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Waukesha, WI offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Milwaukee.
The salary gap between Milwaukee and Waukesha is $603 (1.26%). Waukesha's median is +1.47% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Milwaukee spans $18,930,Waukesha spans $32,506. Waukesha has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced sterile processing technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Waukesha ($51,849 effective) pays 5.10% 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 Milwaukee if…
- ✓Larger job market (500 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,427/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($68,687)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $51,849)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Milwaukee grew 29.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Milwaukee, WI
$35,550 (2019) → $45,888 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$43,070 (2024) → $46,466 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Milwaukee, WI
Waukesha, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Milwaukee or Waukesha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Milwaukee and Waukesha?
Should I relocate from Milwaukee to Waukesha as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Milwaukee vs Waukesha?
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