Allentown vs Altoona: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Allentown, PA and Altoona, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Allentown, PA | Altoona, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $65,612▲ | $54,871 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.55▲ | $26.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $50,961▲ | $49,169 |
| 25th Percentile | $52,025▲ | $49,169 |
| 75th Percentile | $75,266▲ | $65,390 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $79,071▲ | $65,390 |
| Total Employed | 370▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Allentown, PA offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Altoona.
The salary gap between Allentown and Altoona is $10,741 (19.58%). Allentown's median is -3.71% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Allentown spans $28,110,Altoona spans $16,221. Allentown 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, Allentown ($65,633 effective) pays 7.06% more than Altoona ($61,304 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Allentown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($65,612/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($79,071)
- ✓Larger job market (370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $65,633)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Altoona if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Allentown grew 39.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.2% growth in Altoona over the same period.
Allentown, PA
$44,700 (2019) → $62,250 (2025)
Altoona, PA
$44,420 (2021) → $52,060 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Allentown, PA
Altoona, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Allentown or Altoona?
What is the hourly rate difference between Allentown and Altoona?
Should I relocate from Allentown to Altoona as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Allentown vs Altoona?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jessica Thompson, BA, CST
Career Analyst
Jessica has over 10 years of experience as a surgical technologist. She specializes in orthopedic surgical procedures. Jessica works at a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.40% 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 Jessica Thompson, BA, CST, a licensed surgical technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov