Are you curious about How Much Does A Surgical Technologist Make? The typical surgical technologist’s salary averages $62,250 per year in the United States, approximately $29.93 per hour, according to the BLS. At HOW.EDU.VN, we can connect you with career experts who can provide personalized insights into factors affecting income, like location, experience, certifications, and the type of surgical facility, to help you make informed career decisions. Connect with our experienced Ph.D. experts for tailored career guidance and maximize your earning potential in surgical technology with surgical tech salary negotiation tips and career advancement strategies.
1. What Is the Average Surgical Tech Salary?
The average surgical tech salary in the United States is approximately $62,250 per year, or $29.93 per hour, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, entry-level surgical technologists may earn as little as $25,640 per year in rural areas, while experienced scrub techs in major cities can earn up to $95,800 annually, or $46.06 per hour. The job market for surgical technologists is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average for all occupations in the U.S.
1.1. How Does Experience Affect a Surgical Tech’s Salary?
Experience significantly impacts a surgical tech’s salary. Entry-level surgical techs typically start at lower pay rates, while experienced professionals earn significantly more. The exact figures vary by location and employer, but generally, more years of experience correlate with higher earnings.
1.2. How Does Location Impact Surgical Tech Salaries?
Location is a crucial determinant in surgical tech salaries. For example, states like California, Alaska, and Connecticut offer some of the highest median annual salaries, while states such as Alabama and Mississippi offer lower salaries. Cost of living is also a significant factor.
1.3. What Certifications Can Boost a Surgical Tech’s Salary?
Obtaining certifications such as the Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) from the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA) or the Tech in Surgery-Certified (TS-C) from the National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) can significantly increase a surgical tech’s earning potential.
1.4. How Does the Type of Surgical Center Influence Salary?
The type of surgical center significantly impacts a surgical tech’s salary. Larger hospitals and specialized surgical centers tend to offer higher pay compared to smaller clinics. This is often due to the complexity and volume of cases handled.
2. Surgical Tech Salary by State: A Detailed Breakdown
Surgical tech salaries vary considerably by state due to differences in the cost of living, demand, and healthcare infrastructure. Here’s a detailed breakdown of median hourly and annual salaries for surgical techs across different states:
| State | Hourly Median | Annual Median |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $21.99 | $45,730 |
| Alaska | $37.70 | $78,410 |
| Arizona | $31.21 | $64,920 |
| Arkansas | $23.77 | $49,430 |
| California | $37.69 | $78,400 |
| Colorado | $30.50 | $63,430 |
| Connecticut | $38.55 | $80,190 |
| Delaware | $29.37 | $61,090 |
| District of Columbia | $32.94 | $68,520 |
| Florida | $27.25 | $56,670 |
| Georgia | $28.04 | $58,330 |
| Hawaii | $32.63 | $67,880 |
| Idaho | $29.66 | $61,680 |
| Illinois | $28.73 | $59,750 |
| Indiana | $28.12 | $58,480 |
| Iowa | $24.51 | $50,990 |
| Kansas | $24.53 | $51,020 |
| Kentucky | $24.84 | $51,660 |
| Louisiana | $24.31 | $50,560 |
| Maine | $28.27 | $58,800 |
| Maryland | $29.93 | $62,240 |
| Massachusetts | $32.62 | $67,840 |
| Michigan | $28.70 | $59,700 |
| Minnesota | $35.00 | $72,800 |
| Mississippi | $22.03 | $45,830 |
| Missouri | $27.76 | $57,730 |
| Montana | $27.90 | $58,030 |
| Nebraska | $28.67 | $59,630 |
| Nevada | $35.23 | $73,280 |
| New Hampshire | $31.63 | $65,780 |
| New Jersey | $33.45 | $69,580 |
| New Mexico | $23.60 | $49,080 |
| New York | $35.66 | $74,180 |
| North Carolina | $25.40 | $52,830 |
| North Dakota | $28.68 | $59,650 |
| Ohio | $28.33 | $58,930 |
| Oklahoma | $24.71 | $51,400 |
| Oregon | $36.32 | $75,550 |
| Pennsylvania | $27.38 | $56,940 |
| Rhode Island | $30.19 | $62,800 |
| South Carolina | $28.15 | $58,550 |
| South Dakota | $24.99 | $51,980 |
| Tennessee | $27.84 | $57,910 |
| Texas | $28.76 | $59,810 |
| Utah | $26.50 | $55,120 |
| Vermont | $26.35 | $54,820 |
| Virginia | $30.23 | $62,880 |
| Washington | $33.78 | $70,250 |
| West Virginia | $23.36 | $48,590 |
| Wisconsin | $30.84 | $64,150 |
| Wyoming | $26.06 | $54,200 |
| Puerto Rico | $11.72 | $24,370 |
These figures provide a comprehensive overview for anyone considering a career as a surgical tech, allowing them to assess potential earnings based on location.
2.1. Which States Offer the Highest Surgical Tech Salaries?
States like California, Alaska, and Connecticut consistently rank among the highest paying for surgical technologists, with median annual salaries often exceeding $75,000. These states typically have higher costs of living and greater demands for skilled healthcare professionals.
2.2. Which States Offer the Lowest Surgical Tech Salaries?
States such as Puerto Rico, Mississippi, and Alabama tend to offer the lowest salaries for surgical technologists, with median annual wages sometimes below $50,000. These areas often have a lower cost of living and less demand for specialized healthcare services.
2.3. How Does Cost of Living Affect Surgical Tech Salaries in Different States?
The cost of living significantly influences surgical tech salaries across different states. States with a high cost of living, such as California and New York, generally offer higher wages to offset living expenses. Conversely, states with lower living costs may offer lower salaries, as the financial burden on employees is less.
2.4. Are There Regional Trends in Surgical Tech Salaries?
Yes, regional trends exist in surgical tech salaries. The West Coast and Northeast regions typically offer higher wages due to stronger economies and higher living costs. The Southeast and Midwest regions tend to have lower salaries, reflecting different economic conditions and healthcare demands.
3. Surgical Tech Salary by City: A Detailed Overview
Surgical tech salaries vary significantly by city, influenced by local cost of living, demand for healthcare services, and the presence of major medical facilities. Below is an overview of median hourly and annual salaries for surgical techs in various metropolitan areas:
| Metro Area | Primary State | Hourly Median | Annual Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta-Sandy Springs-Roswell, GA | GA | $30.10 | $62,610 |
| Austin-Round Rock, TX | TX | $30.42 | $63,270 |
| Baltimore-Columbia-Towson, MD | MD | $29.57 | $61,510 |
| Birmingham-Hoover, AL | AL | $23.69 | $49,270 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | NC | $25.54 | $53,120 |
| Chicago-Naperville-Elgin, IL-IN-WI | IL | $29.21 | $60,760 |
| Cincinnati, OH-KY-IN | OH | $29.21 | $60,750 |
| Cleveland-Elyria, OH | OH | $28.64 | $59,570 |
| Columbus, OH | OH | $28.33 | $58,930 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | TX | $31.24 | $64,980 |
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood, CO | CO | $30.35 | $63,120 |
| Detroit-Warren-Dearborn, MI | MI | $29.52 | $61,400 |
| Grand Rapids-Wyoming, MI | MI | $26.21 | $54,510 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | TX | $30.61 | $63,660 |
| Indianapolis-Carmel-Anderson, IN | IN | $29.23 | $60,800 |
| Jacksonville, FL | FL | $25.22 | $52,450 |
| Kansas City, MO-KS | MO | $29.68 | $61,730 |
| Las Vegas-Henderson-Paradise, NV | NV | $35.90 | $74,680 |
| Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway, AR | AR | $24.70 | $51,380 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA | CA | $32.77 | $68,150 |
| Louisville/Jefferson County, KY-IN | KY | $28.77 | $59,840 |
| Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach, FL | FL | $29.24 | $60,820 |
| Milwaukee-Waukesha-West Allis, WI | WI | $31.06 | $64,610 |
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI | MN | $37.07 | $77,110 |
| Nashville-Davidson–Murfreesboro–Franklin, TN | TN | $29.02 | $60,360 |
| New York-Newark-Jersey City, NY-NJ-PA | NY | $37.97 | $78,980 |
| Oklahoma City, OK | OK | $28.81 | $59,930 |
| Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford, FL | FL | $27.45 | $57,100 |
| Philadelphia-Camden-Wilmington, PA-NJ-DE-MD | PA | $29.38 | $61,110 |
| Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, AZ | AZ | $32.14 | $66,850 |
| Pittsburgh, PA | PA | $25.52 | $53,080 |
| Portland-Vancouver-Hillsboro, OR-WA | OR | $37.31 | $77,610 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA | CA | $30.83 | $64,120 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA | CA | $39.44 | $82,030 |
| St. Louis, MO-IL | MO | $29.86 | $62,110 |
| Salt Lake City, UT | UT | $29.53 | $61,410 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels, TX | TX | $23.61 | $49,120 |
| San Diego-Carlsbad, CA | CA | $39.12 | $81,360 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | CA | $46.84 | $97,430 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | CA | $47.49 | $98,780 |
| San Juan-Carolina-Caguas, PR | PR | $11.93 | $24,810 |
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue, WA | WA | $36.82 | $76,580 |
| Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater, FL | FL | $27.84 | $57,920 |
| Tulsa, OK | OK | $23.62 | $49,130 |
| Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News, VA-NC | VA | $26.26 | $54,620 |
| Washington-Arlington-Alexandria, DC-VA-MD-WV | DC | $36.53 | $75,970 |
| Boston-Cambridge-Nashua, MA-NH | MA | $33.43 | $69,530 |
This data offers valuable insights for surgical techs looking to maximize their earning potential by choosing the right location.
3.1. Which Cities Offer the Highest Surgical Tech Salaries?
Metropolitan areas like San Jose, San Francisco, and Sacramento in California offer some of the highest salaries for surgical techs, with annual median wages often exceeding $80,000 to $90,000. These cities have high costs of living and strong healthcare industries.
3.2. Which Cities Offer the Lowest Surgical Tech Salaries?
Cities such as San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Birmingham, Alabama, tend to offer lower salaries for surgical techs, with annual median wages that can be significantly less than the national average. These areas typically have a lower cost of living and less demand for specialized medical services.
3.3. How Does Urban vs. Rural Location Affect Surgical Tech Salaries?
Urban areas generally offer higher salaries for surgical techs compared to rural locations. Cities have a greater concentration of hospitals and surgical centers, leading to increased demand and higher compensation.
3.4. What Are the Best Cities for Surgical Techs Considering Cost of Living?
Considering cost of living, cities like Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Austin, Texas, provide a good balance between salary and affordability. Surgical techs in these cities can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the extreme expenses of cities like San Francisco or New York.
4. Surgical Tech Salary vs. Other Healthcare Professions
Surgical techs generally require certification or an associate degree and often earn competitive salaries compared to other healthcare roles with similar education requirements. The average surgical tech salary ($62,250) holds up well against similar professions.
4.1. How Does a Surgical Tech Salary Compare to a Registered Nurse (RN)?
Registered Nurses (RNs) typically earn a higher average salary than surgical techs, often due to the more extensive education and broader responsibilities. The median annual wage for RNs was $81,220 as of May 2022. However, surgical techs enjoy focused responsibilities within the surgical environment.
4.2. Surgical Tech vs. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Salary Comparison
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) generally earn less than surgical techs. As of May 2022, the median annual wage for LPNs was $54,620. Surgical techs often have specialized training that commands a higher salary.
4.3. Comparing Surgical Tech Salaries to Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs)
Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) typically earn less than surgical techs. The median annual wage for EMTs and paramedics was $36,930 as of May 2022. Surgical techs have more specialized, in-demand skills within a controlled environment.
4.4. How Does a Surgical Tech Salary Stack Up Against a Medical Assistant?
Medical Assistants usually earn less than surgical techs. As of May 2022, the median annual wage for medical assistants was $38,190. Surgical techs’ specialized role in surgical procedures often leads to higher compensation.
5. Factors Influencing Surgical Tech Salaries
Several factors can influence the salary of a surgical tech, including certification, specialization, experience, location, and employer type. Understanding these factors can help surgical techs maximize their earning potential.
5.1. The Impact of Certification on Earning Potential
Certification significantly boosts a surgical tech’s earning potential. Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) are often preferred by employers and can negotiate higher salaries. Certifications demonstrate competence and commitment to the profession.
5.2. How Specialization Affects Surgical Tech Salaries
Specializing in areas such as cardiac, orthopedic, or neurosurgery can lead to higher salaries. Specialized surgical techs possess advanced skills and knowledge that are highly valued in complex surgical procedures.
5.3. The Role of Education and Training in Salary Determination
Higher levels of education and specialized training typically result in higher salaries. Surgical techs with associate degrees or specialized training programs are often compensated more than those with only a basic certification.
5.4. Negotiating Your Salary: Tips for Surgical Techs
Effective salary negotiation can significantly impact a surgical tech’s earnings. Researching average salaries in your location, highlighting your certifications and experience, and being confident in your value are essential negotiation strategies.
6. Strategies to Increase Your Surgical Tech Salary
To increase your surgical tech salary, focus on gaining certifications, specializing in high-demand areas, seeking advancement opportunities, staying updated with new technologies, and considering relocation or travel opportunities.
6.1. Pursuing Advanced Certifications and Specializations
Earning advanced certifications and specializing in surgical areas such as cardiac or neurosurgery can significantly increase your market value and earning potential.
6.2. Continuing Education and Professional Development
Staying updated with the latest surgical techniques and technologies through continuing education enhances your skills and makes you a more valuable asset to your surgical team.
6.3. Advancing to Surgical First Assistant Roles
Becoming a surgical first assistant involves additional training and advanced skill requirements, leading to higher pay and more responsibilities in the operating room.
6.4. Exploring Travel Surgical Tech Opportunities
Travel surgical techs often earn more than permanent staff due to the demand for their services in various locations. This can be a lucrative option if you’re willing to work short-term contracts and move frequently.
6.5. Relocating to High-Paying Regions or Facilities
Moving to states or cities with higher average salaries or seeking employment at larger hospitals and specialized surgical centers can significantly boost your earning potential.
7. Benefits Packages for Surgical Technologists
In addition to salary, benefits packages are a crucial component of total compensation for surgical technologists. These packages often include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and other perks that can significantly impact financial well-being.
7.1. Common Benefits Offered to Surgical Techs
Common benefits for surgical techs include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans such as 401(k) with employer matching, paid vacation and sick leave, and life insurance. Some employers may also offer tuition reimbursement, professional development funds, and wellness programs.
7.2. How to Evaluate the Value of a Benefits Package
To evaluate a benefits package, consider the cost of premiums, deductibles, and co-pays for health insurance. Assess the employer’s contribution to retirement plans and the vesting schedule. Also, factor in the value of paid time off, holidays, and other perks.
7.3. Negotiating for Better Benefits
Negotiating for better benefits can be part of your overall salary negotiation. If the salary offer is lower than expected, try to negotiate for better health insurance coverage, increased retirement contributions, or additional paid time off.
7.4. Understanding Retirement Plans and Options
Understanding your retirement plan options is crucial for long-term financial security. Common retirement plans include 401(k), 403(b), and pension plans. Know the details of employer matching, vesting periods, and investment options.
8. Work Environment and Job Satisfaction for Surgical Techs
The work environment and job satisfaction are important factors to consider alongside salary. Surgical techs work in high-pressure environments but often find satisfaction in contributing to successful surgical outcomes and patient care.
8.1. Typical Working Conditions for Surgical Technologists
Surgical techs typically work in operating rooms, which can be fast-paced and demanding. They spend long hours standing and must be able to handle stressful situations. The environment requires strict adherence to safety protocols and sterile techniques.
8.2. The Level of Stress and Demands in the Role
The role of a surgical tech can be highly stressful due to the critical nature of surgeries and the need for precision and quick decision-making. Managing this stress is crucial for job satisfaction and career longevity.
8.3. Opportunities for Advancement and Career Growth
Opportunities for advancement include specializing in surgical areas, becoming a surgical first assistant, or moving into supervisory roles. Continuous learning and professional development are essential for career growth.
8.4. Balancing Work and Personal Life as a Surgical Tech
Balancing work and personal life can be challenging due to the demands of the job. Strategies include effective time management, setting boundaries, and utilizing available support systems to maintain well-being.
9. Future Outlook for Surgical Techs: Job Growth and Salary Trends
The future outlook for surgical techs is promising, with projected job growth and increasing salary trends. The demand for surgical technologists is expected to rise, driven by an aging population and advancements in surgical procedures.
9.1. Projected Job Growth for Surgical Technologists
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 5% growth in employment for surgical technologists from 2022 to 2032, which is about average for all occupations. This growth indicates stable job prospects for those entering or advancing in the field.
9.2. Factors Driving the Demand for Surgical Techs
Factors driving demand include an aging population needing more surgeries, technological advancements expanding surgical options, and the increasing volume of surgical procedures performed in outpatient centers.
9.3. Expected Salary Increases in the Coming Years
Salaries for surgical techs are expected to increase in the coming years, driven by demand and the rising cost of living. Those with certifications and specialized skills will likely see the most significant gains.
9.4. How to Stay Competitive in the Job Market
To stay competitive, surgical techs should pursue certifications, specialize in high-demand areas, stay updated with new technologies, and continuously develop their skills through professional development and continuing education.
10. Expert Insights and Advice for Aspiring Surgical Techs
For those aspiring to become surgical techs, expert insights and advice can be invaluable. Understanding the necessary education, skills, and strategies for career success can help you navigate the path to a rewarding and well-compensated career.
10.1. Education and Training Requirements
Most surgical tech positions require at least a certificate or associate degree from an accredited program. These programs cover surgical procedures, sterile techniques, and patient care.
10.2. Essential Skills and Qualities for Success
Essential skills include attention to detail, manual dexterity, the ability to work under pressure, and strong communication skills. Qualities such as reliability, adaptability, and a commitment to patient safety are also crucial.
10.3. Advice from Experienced Surgical Technologists
Experienced surgical technologists advise newcomers to gain as much hands-on experience as possible, seek mentorship, and continuously learn. They also emphasize the importance of professionalism and teamwork.
10.4. Resources for Further Career Guidance
Resources for career guidance include professional organizations such as the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST), career counseling services, and online forums. These resources can provide valuable insights and support for career advancement.
Navigating the landscape of surgical tech salaries requires understanding various factors, from location and experience to certification and specialization. By leveraging resources like HOW.EDU.VN, aspiring and current surgical technologists can gain the insights needed to maximize their earning potential and career satisfaction.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the typical starting salary for a surgical tech?
The typical starting salary for a surgical tech ranges from $25,000 to $40,000 per year, depending on location, experience, and certifications.
2. How can I increase my surgical tech salary?
You can increase your surgical tech salary by obtaining certifications, specializing in high-demand areas, seeking advancement opportunities, staying updated with new technologies, and considering relocation or travel opportunities.
3. Which states pay surgical techs the most?
States like California, Alaska, and Connecticut typically pay surgical techs the most, with median annual salaries often exceeding $75,000.
4. What are the essential skills for a surgical tech?
Essential skills for a surgical tech include attention to detail, manual dexterity, the ability to work under pressure, and strong communication skills.
5. What is the job outlook for surgical techs?
The job outlook for surgical techs is projected to grow by 5% from 2022 to 2032, indicating stable job prospects.
6. How does certification affect a surgical tech’s salary?
Certification significantly boosts a surgical tech’s earning potential. Certified Surgical Technologists (CST) are often preferred by employers and can negotiate higher salaries.
7. What benefits are typically offered to surgical techs?
Typical benefits for surgical techs include medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans such as 401(k) with employer matching, paid vacation and sick leave, and life insurance.
8. What is the difference between a surgical tech and a surgical first assistant?
A surgical first assistant has additional training and advanced skill requirements, leading to higher pay and more responsibilities in the operating room, such as helping surgeons control blood flow and holding organs and tissues out of the way.
9. How can I balance work and personal life as a surgical tech?
You can balance work and personal life by effective time management, setting boundaries, and utilizing available support systems to maintain well-being.
10. What resources are available for surgical tech career guidance?
Resources for career guidance include professional organizations such as the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST), career counseling services, and online forums.
