Lowell vs Springfield: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Lowell, MA and Springfield, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lowell, MA | Springfield, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,978▲ | $82,750 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.89▲ | $39.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,427 | $70,154▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,871▲ | $70,154 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,500▲ | $88,262 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,744▲ | $96,673 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Lowell, MA offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Springfield.
The salary gap between Lowell and Springfield is $228 (0.28%). Lowell's median is +21.77% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lowell spans $67,317,Springfield spans $26,519. Lowell 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, Springfield ($86,143 effective) pays 12.64% more than Lowell ($76,477 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lowell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($82,978/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,744)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,143)
- ✓You prefer the Massachusetts area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Lowell grew 6.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 31.2% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Lowell, MA
$73,984 (2024) → $78,727 (2025)
Springfield, MA
$59,850 (2019) → $78,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lowell, MA
Springfield, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Lowell or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lowell and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Lowell to Springfield as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Lowell vs Springfield?
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