Tampa vs Cape Coral: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Tampa, FL and Cape Coral, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Tampa, FL | Cape Coral, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $47,204▲ | $47,044 |
| Hourly Rate | $22.70▲ | $22.63 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,969 | $37,139▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,000 | $44,512▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $57,390▲ | $48,055 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $75,959▲ | $59,220 |
| Total Employed | 920▲ | 220 |
Verdict
Tampa, FL offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Cape Coral.
The salary gap between Tampa and Cape Coral is $160 (0.34%). Tampa's median is -1.09% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Tampa spans $38,990,Cape Coral spans $22,081. Tampa 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, Tampa ($46,788 effective) pays 1.79% more than Cape Coral ($45,964 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($47,204/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($75,959)
- ✓Larger job market (920 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,788)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Cape Coral if…
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Tampa grew 43.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 33.8% growth in Cape Coral over the same period.
Tampa, FL
$31,680 (2019) → $45,293 (2025)
Cape Coral, FL
$33,730 (2019) → $45,139 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cape Coral, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Tampa or Cape Coral?
What is the hourly rate difference between Tampa and Cape Coral?
Should I relocate from Tampa to Cape Coral as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Tampa vs Cape Coral?
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