Indianapolis vs Kokomo: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Indianapolis, IN and Kokomo, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | Kokomo, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $46,304▲ | $44,402 |
| Hourly Rate | $22.26▲ | $21.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,549▲ | $35,464 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,131▲ | $37,894 |
| 75th Percentile | $49,365 | $53,529▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $61,321 | $65,728▲ |
| Total Employed | 770▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kokomo.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and Kokomo is $1,902 (4.28%). Indianapolis's median is -2.98% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Indianapolis spans $23,772,Kokomo spans $30,264. Kokomo 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, Kokomo ($48,633 effective) pays 0.51% more than Indianapolis ($48,387 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($46,304/year)
- ✓Larger job market (770 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Kokomo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($65,728)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $48,633)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Indianapolis grew 19.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.8% growth in Kokomo over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$37,240 (2019) → $44,429 (2025)
Kokomo, IN
$37,767 (2024) → $42,604 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
Kokomo, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Indianapolis or Kokomo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and Kokomo?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to Kokomo as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Indianapolis vs Kokomo?
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