Springfield vs Waltham: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Springfield, MA and Waltham, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Springfield, MA | Waltham, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $46,474 | $48,373▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $22.34 | $23.25▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,290▲ | $37,713 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,290 | $40,592▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $51,466 | $60,452▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $64,203 | $70,577▲ |
| Total Employed | 190▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Waltham, MA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Springfield and Waltham is $1,899 (4.09%). Waltham's median is +1.36% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Springfield spans $23,913,Waltham spans $32,864. Waltham 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, Springfield ($48,380 effective) pays 8.51% more than Waltham ($44,583 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $48,380)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Waltham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,373/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($70,577)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Springfield grew 7.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -18.6% growth in Waltham over the same period.
Springfield, MA
$41,680 (2019) → $44,592 (2025)
Waltham, MA
$57,013 (2024) → $46,414 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Springfield, MA
Waltham, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Springfield or Waltham?
What is the hourly rate difference between Springfield and Waltham?
Should I relocate from Springfield to Waltham as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Springfield vs Waltham?
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