Spokane vs Yakima: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Spokane, WA and Yakima, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Spokane, WA | Yakima, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,687▲ | $46,043 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.86▲ | $22.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,370▲ | $37,139 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,083▲ | $39,160 |
| 75th Percentile | $58,860▲ | $52,216 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $72,307▲ | $62,893 |
| Total Employed | 140▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Spokane, WA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Yakima.
The salary gap between Spokane and Yakima is $5,644 (12.26%). Spokane's median is +8.30% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Spokane spans $32,937,Yakima spans $25,754. Spokane 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, Spokane ($51,509 effective) pays 6.89% more than Yakima ($48,190 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Spokane if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($51,687/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($72,307)
- ✓Larger job market (140 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $51,509)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Yakima if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Spokane grew 28.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.0% growth in Yakima over the same period.
Spokane, WA
$38,490 (2019) → $49,594 (2025)
Yakima, WA
$37,110 (2021) → $44,179 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Spokane, WA
Yakima, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Spokane or Yakima?
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What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Spokane vs Yakima?
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