Columbus vs Elyria: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Columbus, OH and Elyria, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Elyria, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,582▲ | $63,272 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.49▲ | $30.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,816▲ | $45,288 |
| 25th Percentile | $64,041▲ | $53,297 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,750▲ | $77,519 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $89,221 | $93,521▲ |
| Total Employed | 750▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elyria.
The salary gap between Columbus and Elyria is $4,310 (6.81%). Columbus's median is -0.82% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $36,405,Elyria spans $48,233. Elyria has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced surgical technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($70,789 effective) pays 1.48% more than Elyria ($69,760 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,582/year)
- ✓Larger job market (750 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $70,789)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Elyria if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($93,521)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Columbus grew 36.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Elyria over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$46,880 (2019) → $64,120 (2025)
Elyria, OH
$47,323 (2024) → $60,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Elyria, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Columbus or Elyria?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Elyria?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Elyria as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Columbus vs Elyria?
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