Surgical technicians, also known as surgical technologists, play a vital role in the operating room. As the healthcare industry continues to expand, the demand—and pay—for surgical techs has followed suit. In this 2026 guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about surgical technician salaries, including average earnings, salary by experience, job trends, and how education and certification can impact income.
What Is the Average Surgical Technician Salary in 2026?
As of 2026, the average salary for a surgical technician in the U.S. is approximately $61,500 per year. However, this figure can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, location, certifications, and workplace setting.
Hourly rate: $29.50 (on average)
Top 10% earners: $79,000+
Bottom 10% earners: $43,000 or less
Key Factors That Influence Surgical Technician Salary
Several variables can influence a surgical technician’s salary. These include:
1. Experience Level
More experience generally leads to higher pay. Here’s how salaries typically progress:
Entry-Level (0-2 years): $45,000 – $52,000
Mid-Level (3-7 years): $55,000 – $65,000
Experienced (8+ years): $66,000 – $75,000
Senior or Lead Techs: $75,000 – $85,000+
2. Education and Certifications
Higher qualifications can lead to better pay and advancement opportunities.
Basic requirement: Post-secondary certificate or associate degree
Certification boosts: Holding a Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) credential can increase salary by 10–15%
Additional training: Specializations in cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurological surgery may command premium pay
3. Geographic Location
Where you work has a significant impact:
Highest-paying states in 2026: California, Alaska, New York, Massachusetts, and Oregon
Lowest-paying regions: Parts of the Midwest and South
4. Work Setting
Different work environments pay differently:
Hospitals: $58,000 – $66,000
Outpatient centers: $62,000 – $70,000
Private surgical offices: $50,000 – $58,000
Travel surgical techs: $70,000 – $90,000 (with stipends and bonuses)
Additional Earnings and Take-Home Pay
For a salary of $103,000, such as what experienced lead surgical techs or specialized traveling techs may earn:
Estimated federal and state tax (combined ~25–30%): ~$25,000–$30,000
Take-home salary: Approximately $73,000–$78,000 annually, or $6,100–$6,500 per month
Bonuses, overtime, and on-call pay can further increase total compensation.
Job Market Trends in 2026
The surgical technician field continues to grow in response to rising surgical demand and technological advancements:
Job growth rate: Projected at 7–9% over the next decade
Aging population: More surgeries lead to greater tech demand
Shift to outpatient care: Boosts hiring in surgical centers and clinics
Emerging roles, such as senior lead navigator or surgical assist specialists, are commanding higher salaries and offering paths into healthcare leadership.
Benefits of Becoming a Surgical Technician
Beyond the paycheck, this career offers several benefits:
High job satisfaction
Quick entry (2-year degree or less)
Diverse work settings (hospitals, private offices, travel)
Opportunities for specialization and advancement
Strong job security
How to Maximize Your Surgical Tech Salary
If you’re aiming for top-tier earnings, consider the following:
Earn a CST certification through NBSTSA
Gain experience in high-demand specialties
Pursue continuing education
Relocate to high-paying states or cities
Explore travel tech positions for bonus potential
Conclusion
Surgical technicians in 2026 are seeing strong salary growth, especially those who invest in certification, specialize, or work in high-demand regions. With a rewarding mix of job security, competitive pay, and growth opportunities, this career path remains a solid choice for those entering the healthcare field.