Rochester vs Utica: Sterile Processing Technician Salary (2026)
Compare sterile processing technician salaries between Rochester, NY and Utica, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Utica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $45,613 | $45,623▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $21.93 | $21.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $37,099▲ | $36,808 |
| 25th Percentile | $44,323▲ | $40,331 |
| 75th Percentile | $50,856 | $57,680▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $59,380▲ | $57,680 |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Rochester, NY offers better overall compensation for sterile processing technicians, winning 2 out of 4 metrics compared to Utica.
The salary gap between Rochester and Utica is $10 (0.02%). Utica's median is -4.40% compared to the US national median of $47,724.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $22,281,Utica spans $20,872. Rochester 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, Utica ($49,227 effective) pays 4.72% more than Rochester ($47,007 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($59,380)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Utica if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($45,623/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $49,227)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, sterile processing technician salaries in Rochester grew 42.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 15.2% growth in Utica over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$30,810 (2019) → $43,766 (2025)
Utica, NY
$38,000 (2021) → $43,776 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
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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