Rochester vs Winona: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Rochester, MN and Winona, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, MN | Winona, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,985▲ | $42,768 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.07▲ | $20.56 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $42,852▲ | $33,957 |
| 25th Percentile | $47,894▲ | $36,130 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,810▲ | $51,419 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,810 | $60,036▲ |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Winona.
The salary gap between Rochester and Winona is $5,217 (12.20%). Rochester's median is +0.55% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $15,958,Winona spans $26,079. Winona 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, Rochester ($52,835 effective) pays 21.68% more than Winona ($43,419 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($47,985/year)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,835)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Winona if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($60,036)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Rochester grew 1.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -12.1% growth in Winona over the same period.
Rochester, MN
$45,590 (2019) → $46,042 (2025)
Winona, MN
$46,674 (2024) → $41,036 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, MN
Winona, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Rochester or Winona?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Winona?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Winona as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Rochester vs Winona?
Related Comparisons
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