Augusta vs Valdosta: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Augusta, GA and Valdosta, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Valdosta, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $43,202 | $44,213▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $20.77 | $21.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,307 | $35,461▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,000▲ | $37,843 |
| 75th Percentile | $47,874 | $55,097▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $55,228 | $65,633▲ |
| Total Employed | 130▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Valdosta, GA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Augusta.
The salary gap between Augusta and Valdosta is $1,011 (2.34%). Valdosta's median is -7.36% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $20,921,Valdosta spans $30,172. Valdosta 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, Valdosta ($47,490 effective) pays 1.02% more than Augusta ($47,008 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Valdosta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,213/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($65,633)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,490)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Augusta grew 17.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.4% growth in Valdosta over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$35,320 (2019) → $41,453 (2025)
Valdosta, GA
$36,754 (2024) → $42,423 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Valdosta, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Augusta or Valdosta?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Valdosta?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Valdosta as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Augusta vs Valdosta?
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