Arvada vs Denver: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Arvada, CO and Denver, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Arvada, CO | Denver, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $50,148▲ | $45,513 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.11▲ | $21.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,324▲ | $35,779 |
| 25th Percentile | $42,419▲ | $39,540 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,023▲ | $57,680 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $72,674▲ | $65,203 |
| Total Employed | 31 | 1,280▲ |
Verdict
Arvada, CO offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Denver.
The salary gap between Arvada and Denver is $4,635 (10.18%). Arvada's median is +5.08% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Arvada spans $33,350,Denver spans $29,424. Arvada 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, Arvada ($47,760 effective) pays 11.00% more than Denver ($43,025 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Arvada if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($50,148/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($72,674)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,760)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Denver if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Arvada grew -6.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -0.5% growth in Denver over the same period.
Arvada, CO
$51,606 (2024) → $48,117 (2025)
Denver, CO
$43,910 (2019) → $43,670 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Arvada, CO
Denver, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Arvada or Denver?
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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