Montgomery vs Opelika: Surgical Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare surgical technologist salaries between Montgomery, AL and Opelika, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Montgomery, AL | Opelika, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $51,783▲ | $50,045 |
| Hourly Rate | $24.90▲ | $24.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $34,424 | $38,508▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $39,030 | $44,007▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $64,937▲ | $61,594 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $91,245▲ | $73,546 |
| Total Employed | 270▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Montgomery, AL offers better overall compensation for surgical technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Opelika.
The salary gap between Montgomery and Opelika is $1,738 (3.47%). Montgomery's median is -24.01% compared to the US national median of $68,141.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Montgomery spans $56,821,Opelika spans $35,038. Montgomery 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, Montgomery ($57,741 effective) pays 1.42% more than Opelika ($56,934 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Montgomery if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($51,783/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($91,245)
- ✓Larger job market (270 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $57,741)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Opelika if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, surgical technologist salaries in Montgomery grew 65.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.5% growth in Opelika over the same period.
Montgomery, AL
$29,680 (2019) → $49,130 (2025)
Opelika, AL
$40,751 (2024) → $47,481 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Montgomery, AL
Opelika, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays surgical technologists more: Montgomery or Opelika?
What is the hourly rate difference between Montgomery and Opelika?
Should I relocate from Montgomery to Opelika as a surgical technologist?
What do entry-level surgical technologists earn in Montgomery vs Opelika?
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