Derry vs Manchester: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Derry, NH and Manchester, NH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Derry, NH | Manchester, NH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,175 | $78,344▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $33.74 | $37.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,348 | $54,576▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $61,174 | $68,225▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,311▲ | $86,628 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $104,938▲ | $88,694 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Manchester, NH offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Derry.
The salary gap between Derry and Manchester is $8,169 (11.64%). Manchester's median is +14.97% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Derry spans $51,590,Manchester spans $34,118. Derry 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, Manchester ($74,149 effective) pays 13.38% more than Derry ($65,401 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Derry if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($104,938)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($78,344/year)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $74,149)
- ✓You prefer the New Hampshire area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Derry grew 7.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.6% growth in Manchester over the same period.
Derry, NH
$61,792 (2024) → $66,580 (2025)
Manchester, NH
$54,410 (2019) → $74,330 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Derry or Manchester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Derry and Manchester?
Should I relocate from Derry to Manchester as a surgical technologist?
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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