Bethlehem vs Philadelphia: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries between Bethlehem, PA and Philadelphia, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethlehem, PA | Philadelphia, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $66,011▲ | $65,304 |
| Hourly Rate | $31.74▲ | $31.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,718 | $44,224▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $49,618 | $51,728▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $84,494 | $87,673▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,317 | $103,652▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 6,150▲ |
Verdict
Bethlehem and Philadelphia are closely matched on overall medical and clinical laboratory technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Bethlehem and Philadelphia is $707 (1.08%). Bethlehem's median is -3.96% compared to the US national median of $68,734.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethlehem spans $61,599,Philadelphia spans $59,428. Bethlehem has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Bethlehem ($67,773 effective) pays 6.43% more than Philadelphia ($63,678 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethlehem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($66,011/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $67,773)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,652)
- ✓Larger job market (6,150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries in Bethlehem grew -7.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.1% growth in Philadelphia over the same period.
Bethlehem, PA
$69,142 (2024) → $64,063 (2025)
Philadelphia, PA
$57,580 (2019) → $63,377 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethlehem, PA
Philadelphia, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical and clinical laboratory technologists more: Bethlehem or Philadelphia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bethlehem and Philadelphia?
Should I relocate from Bethlehem to Philadelphia as a medical and clinical laboratory technologist?
What do entry-level medical and clinical laboratory technologists earn in Bethlehem vs Philadelphia?
Related Comparisons
Written by Alexandra Choi, MS, MT(ASCP)
Career Analyst
Alexandra has 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory science. She specializes in molecular diagnostics. She works at a large metropolitan hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.04% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Alexandra Choi, MS, MT(ASCP), a licensed medical and clinical laboratory technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov