Des Moines vs Johnston: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,043▲ | $37,610 |
| Hourly Rate | $21.65▲ | $18.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,900▲ | $31,481 |
| 25th Percentile | $38,130▲ | $32,759 |
| 75th Percentile | $48,685▲ | $45,822 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $58,369▲ | $53,097 |
| Total Employed | 110▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnston.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $7,433 (19.76%). Des Moines's median is -5.62% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $20,469,Johnston spans $21,616. Johnston 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, Des Moines ($49,119 effective) pays 18.06% more than Johnston ($41,604 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($45,043/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($58,369)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,119)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Des Moines grew 39.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -2.3% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$30,990 (2019) → $43,219 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$36,918 (2024) → $36,087 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
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