Gardner vs Topeka: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Gardner, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gardner, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $38,620 | $42,048▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $18.57 | $20.22▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,269▲ | $29,944 |
| 25th Percentile | $33,597 | $35,771▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $46,955 | $52,993▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $54,552 | $64,009▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 21▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gardner.
The salary gap between Gardner and Topeka is $3,428 (8.88%). Topeka's median is -11.89% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gardner spans $22,283,Topeka spans $34,065. Topeka 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, Topeka ($46,257 effective) pays 8.88% more than Gardner ($42,486 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gardner if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($42,048/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($64,009)
- ✓Larger job market (21 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $46,257)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Gardner grew 9.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 14.0% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Gardner, KS
$33,718 (2024) → $37,056 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$35,400 (2020) → $40,345 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gardner, KS
Topeka, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Gardner or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gardner and Topeka?
Should I relocate from Gardner to Topeka as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Gardner vs Topeka?
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