Surgical tech salary state by state

Surgical Tech Salary in 2025

National Overview

What You Can Expect to Earn as a Surgical Technologist

As a surgical technology student, you're probably wondering what you can realistically expect to earn after graduation. The good news is that surgical technologists enjoy solid earning potential across the United States, with room for significant growth as you gain experience and develop specialized skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, surgical technologists earn an average of $62,480 per year nationwide, which translates to about $30.04 per hour.

Your starting salary as a new graduate will depend on several factors, but you can typically expect to begin your career earning between $35,000 and $45,000 annually in most parts of the country. This represents a solid foundation for your career, especially considering that many surgical technology programs can be completed in 12-24 months. Unlike some healthcare careers that require four-year degrees, you can enter the workforce relatively quickly and start earning a stable income.

Here's what you can expect at different career stages:

  • New graduate (0-1 years): $35,000-$45,000
  • Experienced technologist (3-5 years): $45,000-$60,000
  • Specialized technologist (5+ years): $60,000-$75,000
  • Senior/Lead technologist: $70,000-$85,000+
  • Supervisory roles: $80,000-$100,000+

The most encouraging aspect of surgical technology careers is the consistent demand for skilled practitioners. As you complete your education and enter the workforce, you'll find that hospitals, surgery centers, and other healthcare facilities actively seek qualified surgical technologists. This demand translates to job security and opportunities for salary growth as you develop your skills and gain experience in the operating room.

Your earning potential will also be influenced by the type of certification you obtain. Most employers prefer or require the CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) credential, which you can earn by passing the national examination after completing your educational program. This certification demonstrates your competency and commitment to professional standards, often resulting in higher starting salaries and better job opportunities.

How Your Location Affects Your Starting Salary

Where you choose to work will significantly impact your earning potential as a surgical technologist. Different states and regions offer varying salary ranges, influenced by factors like cost of living, demand for healthcare workers, and local economic conditions. Understanding these geographic differences can help you make informed decisions about where to begin your career or whether relocating might boost your earning potential.

High-cost areas typically offer higher salaries to help offset increased living expenses. For example, surgical technologists in California, New York, and other expensive states often earn substantially more than the national average. However, you'll need to consider whether the higher salary truly provides better purchasing power after accounting for housing costs, taxes, and other expenses.

Regional salary patterns show distinct geographic clusters:

  • West Coast states: Generally highest salaries ($55,000-$85,000+)
  • Northeast corridor: Above-average pay ($50,000-$75,000)
  • Southwest markets: Competitive wages ($45,000-$65,000)
  • Southeast states: Moderate salaries ($40,000-$60,000)
  • Midwest/Plains states: Variable by market ($40,000-$65,000)

Rural areas often face staffing challenges that can work to your advantage as a new graduate. While base salaries might be lower than urban centers, many rural hospitals offer signing bonuses, loan forgiveness programs, or other incentives to attract skilled surgical technologists. These additional benefits can make rural positions financially attractive while providing valuable experience in a supportive environment.

Metropolitan areas with major medical centers typically offer the highest salaries but also the most competitive job markets. Cities like Houston, Dallas, Los Angeles, and New York provide numerous employment opportunities and higher wages, but you may face more competition from other job seekers. Smaller cities and towns often provide easier entry into the field while still offering respectable salaries and excellent learning opportunities.

When evaluating different locations, consider factors beyond just the base salary. Look at the total compensation package, including health insurance, retirement benefits, paid time off, and professional development opportunities. A slightly lower salary in a area with excellent benefits and lower living costs might actually provide better financial outcomes than a higher salary in an expensive location with minimal benefits.

State Comparisons

Best-Paying States for New Surgical Technologists

If maximizing your earning potential is a priority, certain states consistently offer higher compensation for surgical technologists. California leads the nation in surgical technologist salaries, with the California Employment Development Department reporting median wages of $80,766 annually. This represents a significant premium over national averages and reflects the state's high cost of living and competitive healthcare market.

Texas offers another attractive market for surgical technologists, with Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board data showing average salaries of $59,813. While below California levels, Texas provides excellent value when considering the state's lack of income tax and generally lower cost of living. The state's large population and numerous medical centers create abundant job opportunities for new graduates.

Top-paying states for surgical technologists include:

  • California: $80,766 average (highest in nation)
  • Texas: $59,813 average (no state income tax)
  • New York: $58,000-$75,000 range (varies by region)
  • Florida: $56,784 average (no state income tax)
  • Nevada: $55,000-$70,000 range (no state income tax)

When considering these high-paying states, it's important to research specific opportunities in your areas of interest. California's salary data shows significant variation between regions, with San Francisco Bay Area and Los Angeles commanding premium wages while Central Valley areas offer more moderate compensation. Similarly, Texas markets vary considerably, with Houston and Dallas typically offering higher salaries than smaller cities.

Florida presents an interesting case study in balancing salary with quality of life. According to the Association of Surgical Technologists, Florida surgical technologists earn an average of $56,784 annually. While this figure sits below top-paying states like California, Florida's lack of state income tax and year-round warm weather make it attractive to many healthcare professionals. The state's large retiree population also creates consistent demand for surgical services.

Remember that these state averages represent broad ranges, and your actual starting salary will depend on factors like your education level, certification status, and the specific employer you choose. Major medical centers and academic hospitals typically offer higher starting salaries than smaller community hospitals, regardless of the state where they're located.

Cost of Living vs. Your Take-Home Pay

Understanding the relationship between salary and cost of living is crucial for making smart career decisions as a new surgical technologist. A higher salary doesn't always translate to better financial outcomes if your daily expenses consume most of your paycheck. Learning to evaluate total financial impact helps you choose opportunities that truly improve your quality of life.

States with no income tax provide significant advantages for surgical technologists, as you keep more of your gross earnings. Texas, Florida, Nevada, and other no-tax states allow you to take home 100% of your salary after federal taxes, while residents of high-tax states like California and New York may pay 5-13% in state income taxes. This difference can amount to thousands of dollars annually, especially as your career progresses.

Housing costs represent the largest expense category for most surgical technologists and vary dramatically across different markets:

  • High-cost areas: 30-50% of salary for housing
  • Moderate-cost areas: 20-30% of salary for housing
  • Low-cost areas: 15-25% of salary for housing
  • Rural areas: 10-20% of salary for housing
  • Consider utilities, taxes, and maintenance costs

California's high salaries become less attractive when you consider that median home prices in many areas exceed $600,000, requiring substantial down payments and monthly mortgage payments. In contrast, Texas offers competitive salaries with median home prices often below $300,000, allowing you to build equity and achieve homeownership more easily.

Transportation costs also vary significantly by location. Urban areas with public transit systems can reduce your need for car ownership, while rural areas may require reliable vehicles and longer commutes. Consider fuel costs, insurance rates, and maintenance expenses when evaluating different geographic options for your career.

Some states offer additional financial benefits that enhance your overall compensation package. Community colleges in certain states provide tuition discounts for residents, making it easier to pursue additional education or certifications. Other states offer first-time homebuyer programs or other incentives that can improve your financial position beyond just your base salary.

When comparing opportunities, create a simple budget that accounts for housing, transportation, food, healthcare, and other essential expenses. This analysis will help you identify locations where your surgical technologist salary provides the best purchasing power and quality of life. Don't forget to factor in career advancement opportunities, as some markets offer better long-term growth potential than others.

Other Healthcare Careers
Related Careers

Where You'll Work

Hospital vs. Outpatient Surgery Center Jobs

As a new surgical technologist, you'll need to decide what type of healthcare facility best fits your career goals and lifestyle preferences. The two primary employment settings are hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), each offering distinct advantages and challenges. Understanding these differences will help you make informed decisions about where to begin your career and what opportunities to pursue.

Hospitals typically offer the highest starting salaries and most comprehensive benefits packages for surgical technologists. Large hospital systems provide structured orientation programs, continuing education opportunities, and clear advancement pathways that appeal to new graduates. You'll also gain exposure to a wide variety of surgical procedures, from routine operations to complex emergency cases, which accelerates your professional development.

Hospital employment typically includes these advantages:

  • Higher starting salaries ($40,000-$55,000 for new graduates)
  • Comprehensive benefits (health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off)
  • Diverse surgical experience across multiple specialties
  • Structured training programs and mentorship opportunities
  • Potential for overtime pay and shift differentials

However, hospital positions often require you to work evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays as part of regular scheduling. You may also be placed on call, meaning you could be asked to come in for emergency surgeries outside your regular shifts. The fast-paced environment and high-stress situations can be challenging for new graduates, though many find the variety and learning opportunities worth the demands.

Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) focus on outpatient procedures and typically operate during standard business hours. These facilities often provide better work-life balance since they rarely handle emergency cases or require extensive on-call coverage. ASCs usually offer competitive salaries ranging from $38,000 to $50,000 for new graduates, though this can vary significantly by location and specialty focus.

Working in an ASC environment offers several benefits including predictable schedules, lower stress levels, and opportunities to develop expertise in specific surgical specialties. Many ASCs focus on particular areas like orthopedics, ophthalmology, or plastic surgery, allowing you to become highly skilled in specialized procedures. The smaller team environment often creates stronger collegial relationships and more personalized attention from supervisors.

Your choice between hospital and ASC employment should align with your personal preferences and career goals. If you thrive in dynamic environments and want broad exposure to different surgical specialties, hospital employment might be ideal. If you prefer predictable schedules and want to develop deep expertise in specific areas, ASC positions could be more suitable.

How Getting Certified Boosts Your Salary

Obtaining professional certification significantly impacts your earning potential as a surgical technologist and opens doors to better employment opportunities. The most widely recognized credential is the CST (Certified Surgical Technologist) offered by the National Board of Surgical Technology and Surgical Assisting (NBSTSA). This certification validates your competency and demonstrates your commitment to maintaining professional standards throughout your career.

Certification typically increases your starting salary by $3,000 to $8,000 annually compared to non-certified technologists. Many employers prefer or require certification, meaning you'll have access to more job opportunities and may receive priority consideration during the hiring process. The certification also provides a foundation for pursuing advanced credentials and specializations that further enhance your earning potential.

The certification process involves completing an accredited surgical technology program and passing a comprehensive examination that covers:

  • Anatomy and physiology relevant to surgical procedures
  • Surgical techniques and instrumentation
  • Sterile technique and infection control
  • Patient care and safety protocols
  • Professional ethics and legal considerations

Many surgical technology programs prepare you for the certification exam as part of their curriculum, and some provide vouchers or reimbursement for the examination fee. If you're currently enrolled in a program, take advantage of study resources, practice exams, and review sessions offered by your instructors. The investment in certification preparation pays dividends throughout your career.

Maintaining your certification requires completing continuing education credits, which keeps you current with evolving surgical techniques and technologies. This ongoing education requirement ensures that certified technologists remain competent and valuable to their employers. Many healthcare facilities provide tuition reimbursement or time off for continuing education activities, making it easier to maintain your certification.

Beyond the CST certification, you can pursue specialty certifications that command even higher salaries. Advanced certifications in areas like cardiac surgery, neurosurgery, or first assisting can increase your earning potential by $10,000 to $20,000 annually. These specialized credentials require additional training and experience but position you for premium employment opportunities.

Some employers offer certification bonuses or salary increases when you achieve professional credentials. These incentives typically range from $500 to $2,000 per certification and may be paid as lump sums or incorporated into your base salary. Even if your current employer doesn't offer certification incentives, having credentials makes you more attractive to other facilities and strengthens your negotiating position.

Salary Growth

How Your Pay Increases with Experience

Your salary as a surgical technologist will grow steadily as you gain experience, develop specialized skills, and take on additional responsibilities. Understanding typical progression patterns helps you set realistic expectations and plan your career development strategically. Most surgical technologists see significant salary increases during their first five years of practice, with continued growth potential throughout their careers.

During your first year as a surgical technologist, you'll focus on mastering fundamental skills and building confidence in the operating room. Your starting salary will reflect your entry-level status, typically ranging from $35,000 to $45,000 depending on your location and employer. However, many facilities offer structured pay increases after successful completion of orientation periods and probationary reviews.

Experience-based salary progression typically follows this pattern:

  • 0-1 years: $35,000-$45,000 (learning fundamental skills)
  • 1-3 years: $42,000-$52,000 (developing competency)
  • 3-5 years: $48,000-$62,000 (gaining expertise)
  • 5-10 years: $55,000-$72,000 (specialized skills)
  • 10+ years: $65,000-$85,000+ (senior-level expertise)

The transition from new graduate to competent practitioner typically occurs during your second and third years of practice. This period often coincides with your first significant salary increase, as you demonstrate ability to handle complex cases independently and potentially train newer staff members. Many employers implement automatic pay scales that provide annual increases based on years of service.

Your geographic location significantly influences salary progression rates. Urban areas and states with higher costs of living typically offer more substantial dollar increases, while rural areas may provide percentage-based increases that reflect local economic conditions. Regardless of location, consistent performance and professional development efforts will be rewarded with compensation growth.

Taking on additional responsibilities accelerates salary growth beyond standard experience-based increases. Opportunities like serving as a preceptor for new employees, participating in quality improvement initiatives, or joining professional committees demonstrate leadership potential and often come with additional compensation. These roles also position you for future advancement into supervisory positions.

Many surgical technologists pursue continuing education and additional certifications during their careers, which directly impact earning potential. Completing courses in new surgical techniques, earning specialty certifications, or pursuing formal education in healthcare administration can result in immediate salary increases and improved long-term career prospects.

Specializing to Earn More Money

Developing expertise in specific surgical specialties represents one of the most effective ways to increase your earning potential as a surgical technologist. Specialized skills command premium salaries because they require additional training, experience, and competency in complex procedures. Most specializations offer salary premiums of $5,000 to $15,000 annually over general surgical technology positions.

Cardiovascular surgery (often called CVOR for Cardiovascular Operating Room) represents one of the highest-paying specialties for surgical technologists. Heart surgery requires extensive knowledge of cardiac anatomy, understanding of heart-lung machines, and ability to assist with complex procedures like bypass surgery and valve replacements. CVOR specialists typically earn $10,000 to $20,000 more than general surgical technologists.

High-earning specialty areas include:

Neurosurgery specialization offers another lucrative path, with surgical technologists supporting brain and spine procedures that require exceptional precision and attention to detail. These procedures often last several hours and involve sophisticated equipment like surgical microscopes and navigation systems. The complexity and critical nature of neurosurgical procedures justify premium compensation for skilled technologists.

Orthopedic surgery specialization appeals to many surgical technologists because of the field's growth potential and diverse procedure types. You might assist with joint replacements, sports medicine procedures, or trauma cases, developing expertise in specialized implants and instrumentation. The aging population and active lifestyle trends ensure continued demand for orthopedic procedures.

Emerging specialties like robotic surgery offer excellent opportunities for career-minded surgical technologists. As hospitals invest in robotic systems for various procedures, they need technologists trained in setup, operation, and troubleshooting of these sophisticated machines. Early adoption of robotic surgery skills can position you for premium compensation and job security.

To pursue specialization, look for opportunities to rotate through different surgical departments during your early career. Many hospitals offer internal training programs that allow interested technologists to develop specialty skills while maintaining their current employment. You might also consider pursuing formal education or certification programs offered by professional organizations or medical device companies.

Remember that specialization requires ongoing commitment to learning and skill development. Surgical techniques evolve continuously, and specialized technologists must stay current with new technologies and procedures. This commitment to lifelong learning ensures your specialized skills remain valuable and marketable throughout your career.

Other Healthcare Careers
Related Careers

Your Future

Job Opportunities and Market Demand

The job market for surgical technologists remains exceptionally strong, with excellent opportunities awaiting you upon graduation. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 7% growth in surgical technologist employment from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates to approximately 6,300 new job openings annually, providing abundant opportunities for new graduates entering the field.

Several factors drive this positive job outlook and create sustained demand for skilled surgical technologists. The aging baby boomer population requires increasing numbers of surgical procedures, from routine operations like cataract surgery to complex procedures like joint replacements and cardiac interventions. As this demographic continues aging, demand for surgical services will continue growing for decades.

Key factors creating job opportunities include:

  • Aging population requiring more surgical procedures
  • Advances in surgical technology enabling new treatments
  • Growth in outpatient surgery centers
  • Rising healthcare access and insurance coverage
  • Retirements among current surgical technologists

The expansion of outpatient surgery centers creates particularly strong opportunities for new surgical technologists. These facilities focus on same-day procedures and often provide better work-life balance than traditional hospital employment. ASCs typically offer competitive salaries and benefits while providing opportunities to develop specialized skills in specific surgical areas.

Technological advances in surgical techniques continue creating new opportunities and expanding the scope of procedures that can be performed. Minimally invasive techniques, robotic surgery, and innovative imaging technologies all require skilled technologists who can adapt to evolving equipment and procedures. Your willingness to embrace new technologies will enhance your job security and earning potential.

Geographic mobility significantly expands your job opportunities as a surgical technologist. Rural areas and certain states face persistent shortages of skilled healthcare workers, creating opportunities for competitive salaries and additional benefits like signing bonuses or loan forgiveness programs. Being willing to relocate can accelerate your career advancement and increase your earning potential.

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the essential nature of surgical services and reinforced the importance of skilled surgical technologists. Healthcare facilities recognize the value of maintaining adequate staffing levels and often offer retention bonuses, improved benefits, and enhanced working conditions to attract and keep skilled technologists.

Your job security as a surgical technologist stems from the hands-on nature of the work, which cannot be automated or outsourced. While technology continues advancing, the need for skilled human technologists to support surgical procedures remains constant. This job security provides peace of mind and financial stability throughout your career.

Career Advancement and Leadership Roles

Your career as a surgical technologist doesn't have to end with direct patient care. Numerous advancement opportunities await ambitious technologists willing to develop additional skills and take on leadership responsibilities. Understanding these pathways helps you plan your professional development and work toward roles that offer increased responsibility and higher compensation.

The most common advancement path involves moving into supervisory or management positions within surgical services departments. These roles typically require 5-10 years of clinical experience plus additional education or training in healthcare administration. Supervisory positions offer salaries ranging from $60,000 to $85,000, while department manager roles can exceed $100,000 annually.

Leadership advancement opportunities include:

  • Charge technologist: $50,000-$65,000 (coordinate daily operations)
  • Team leader: $55,000-$70,000 (supervise staff and training)
  • Supervisor: $65,000-$85,000 (manage departments)
  • Manager: $80,000-$110,000 (oversee multiple areas)
  • Director: $100,000-$140,000+ (executive-level responsibilities)

Educational advancement significantly enhances your promotion potential and earning capacity. Many surgical technologists pursue bachelor's degrees in healthcare administration, business management, or related fields while continuing to work. This combination of clinical experience and formal business education creates ideal candidates for healthcare leadership positions.

The healthcare industry actively seeks leaders who understand both clinical operations and business principles. Your experience as a surgical technologist provides valuable insight into patient care delivery, while additional education in management prepares you for strategic planning, budget management, and staff development responsibilities.

Teaching represents another rewarding advancement option for experienced surgical technologists. Community colleges and vocational schools seek instructors with practical experience to train the next generation of surgical technologists. Academic positions typically offer salaries ranging from $45,000 to $70,000 plus benefits like educational assistance and flexible schedules.

The medical device industry provides lucrative opportunities for surgical technologists with strong communication skills and technical expertise. Sales representatives and clinical specialists use their OR experience to demonstrate products and train customers. These positions often offer base salaries of $60,000-$80,000 plus commissions that can double total compensation.

Some experienced surgical technologists pursue advanced certifications that enable them to function as surgical first assistants. This role involves providing direct assistance to surgeons during procedures and typically requires additional training and certification. First assistants can earn $70,000-$100,000+ annually, representing a significant advancement over traditional surgical technologist roles.

Entrepreneurial opportunities exist for surgical technologists with business acumen and specialized expertise. Some establish consulting practices that help hospitals improve efficiency or achieve accreditation. Others develop training programs or create educational materials for other healthcare professionals. These ventures can provide substantial income while offering professional autonomy and flexibility.

Remember that career advancement requires intentional planning and skill development. Identify your interests and strengths, then pursue relevant education and experience that prepares you for advancement opportunities. Professional organizations like the Association of Surgical Technologists (AST) offer networking opportunities and continuing education that support career growth throughout your professional journey.