Joplin vs Springfield: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Joplin, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Joplin, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $44,913▲ | $38,150 |
| Hourly Rate | $21.59▲ | $18.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $32,236 | $35,458▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $35,028 | $36,108▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $44,913 | $46,074▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $55,748▲ | $47,874 |
| Total Employed | 40 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Joplin, MO offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Joplin and Springfield is $6,763 (17.73%). Joplin's median is -5.89% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Joplin spans $23,512,Springfield spans $12,416. Joplin 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, Joplin ($52,396 effective) pays 21.67% more than Springfield ($43,066 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Joplin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,913/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($55,748)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $52,396)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Joplin grew 31.0% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 19.2% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Joplin, MO
$32,900 (2020) → $43,094 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$30,700 (2019) → $36,605 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Joplin, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays sterile processing technicians more: Joplin or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Joplin and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Joplin to Springfield as a sterile processing technician?
What do entry-level sterile processing technicians earn in Joplin vs Springfield?
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