Central vs Shreveport: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Central, LA and Shreveport, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Central, LA | Shreveport, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $35,236 | $35,849▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $16.94 | $17.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $28,604▲ | $27,614 |
| 25th Percentile | $30,341 | $30,485▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $42,920▲ | $38,370 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $50,376▲ | $45,213 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Shreveport, LA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Central.
The salary gap between Central and Shreveport is $613 (1.74%). Shreveport's median is -24.88% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Central spans $21,772,Shreveport spans $17,599. Central 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, Shreveport ($42,292 effective) pays 8.38% more than Central ($39,021 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Central if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($50,376)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Shreveport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($35,849/year)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $42,292)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Central grew 8.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.0% growth in Shreveport over the same period.
Central, LA
$31,229 (2024) → $33,809 (2025)
Shreveport, LA
$29,640 (2020) → $34,397 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Central, LA
Shreveport, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Central or Shreveport?
What is the hourly rate difference between Central and Shreveport?
Should I relocate from Central to Shreveport as a sterile processing technician?
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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