Lowell vs Worcester: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Lowell, MA and Worcester, MA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lowell, MA | Worcester, MA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $82,978▲ | $81,801 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.89▲ | $39.32 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,427 | $61,923▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,871 | $73,506▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $104,500▲ | $102,122 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,744▲ | $103,281 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Lowell, MA offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Worcester.
The salary gap between Lowell and Worcester is $1,177 (1.44%). 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,Worcester spans $41,358. 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, Worcester ($79,788 effective) pays 4.33% 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 Worcester if…
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $79,788)
- ✓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 43.8% growth in Worcester over the same period.
Lowell, MA
$73,984 (2024) → $78,727 (2025)
Worcester, MA
$53,980 (2019) → $77,610 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lowell, MA
Worcester, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Lowell or Worcester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lowell and Worcester?
Should I relocate from Lowell to Worcester as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Lowell vs Worcester?
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