Bridgeport vs Hartford: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Hartford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Hartford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $48,044▲ | $46,334 |
| Hourly Rate | $23.11▲ | $22.28 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,540▲ | $38,859 |
| 25th Percentile | $45,573▲ | $40,001 |
| 75th Percentile | $62,532▲ | $58,010 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $63,352▲ | $60,521 |
| Total Employed | 230 | 400▲ |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hartford.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Hartford is $1,710 (3.69%). Bridgeport's median is +0.67% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bridgeport spans $23,812,Hartford spans $21,662. Bridgeport 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, Hartford ($45,096 effective) pays 0.31% more than Bridgeport ($44,958 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,044/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($63,352)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Hartford if…
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,096)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Bridgeport grew 31.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 8.9% growth in Hartford over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$35,120 (2019) → $46,099 (2025)
Hartford, CT
$40,830 (2019) → $44,458 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Hartford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Bridgeport or Hartford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and Hartford?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to Hartford as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Bridgeport vs Hartford?
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