How Much Do Surgical Techs Make?

Surgical technologists, also known as operating room technicians, earn varying salaries depending on their experience, location, and the type of healthcare facility they work in. Here’s an overview of how much surgical techs typically make:

1. Average Annual Salary in the U.S.

• Median Salary: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for surgical technologists in 2022 was around $54,800.

2. Salary Range

• Lowest 10%: Surgical techs in the bottom 10% of earners made about $36,930 per year.
• Highest 10%: Those in the top 10% earned more than $75,940 annually.

3. Salary by Experience

• Entry-Level Surgical Techs: Typically earn between $40,000 and $50,000 annually, depending on location and the demand for surgical technologists in their area.
• Experienced Surgical Techs: With more years of experience, surgical technologists can earn anywhere from $60,000 to $75,000 or more, especially if they work in specialized surgeries.

4. Salary by State

• High-Paying States: States like California, Alaska, Nevada, and Minnesota tend to offer higher wages for surgical techs, with average annual salaries exceeding $60,000.
• Lower-Paying States: In states with lower costs of living, such as Alabama or Mississippi, salaries tend to be closer to the national median or slightly lower.

5. Salary by Facility Type

• Hospitals: Surgical techs working in hospitals often earn higher salaries due to the variety of surgeries performed.
• Outpatient Care Centers: Surgical technologists working in outpatient care facilities also earn competitive salaries, often close to or above the national average.

For more detailed and state-specific information, you can check resources like the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics or Payscale.