Salary Guide/Tennessee

Sterile Processing Technician Salary in Tennessee

SPD technicians in Tennessee earn a median of $40,840/year ($19.63/hr), which is -7% below the national median.

Tennessee Pay at a Glance

Median Annual Salary

$40,840

$3,160 vs national ($44,000)

Median Hourly Rate

$19.63

National median: $21.15

Pay Distribution in Tennessee

90th Percentile (Top Earners)$53,680
75th Percentile$46,920
Median (50th Percentile)$40,840
25th Percentile$35,440
10th Percentile (Entry Level)$30,960

Pay by Metro Area in Tennessee

Nashville
$42,800
Memphis
$39,800

Cost-of-Living Adjusted

Tennessee's cost of living index is 91 (national average = 100). When adjusted for local expenses, the effective purchasing power of $40,840 in Tennessee is equivalent to $44,879 in an average-cost area.

Your dollar goes further in Tennessee — the adjusted salary is $4,039 higher than nominal.

Certification Required in Tennessee

Tennessee mandates certification for sterile processing technicians by state law. This means the CRCST (or equivalent CBSPD credential) is required for employment, not just preferred. This mandate tends to raise pay floors as employers must hire certified technicians.

Learn about CRCST certification requirements

Employment in Tennessee

There are approximately 3,680 sterile processing technicians employed in Tennessee. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national growth through 2032 for this occupation — faster than average for all occupations.

Compare with Nearby States

Boost your earning potential in Tennessee

CRCST certification adds $4,000-10,000/year to your salary. Start practicing free.

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