Birmingham vs Decatur: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Decatur, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Decatur, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $56,173▲ | $51,914 |
| Hourly Rate | $27.01▲ | $24.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,921 | $41,516▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $46,234 | $46,922▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $71,999▲ | $64,726 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $89,781▲ | $81,502 |
| Total Employed | 2,790▲ | 90 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for medical and clinical laboratory technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Decatur.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Decatur is $4,259 (8.20%). Birmingham's median is -18.27% compared to the US national median of $68,734.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $49,860,Decatur spans $39,986. Birmingham 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, Birmingham ($61,295 effective) pays 2.97% more than Decatur ($59,526 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($56,173/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($89,781)
- ✓Larger job market (2,790 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $61,295)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries in Birmingham grew 12.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.5% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$48,630 (2019) → $54,516 (2025)
Decatur, AL
$38,920 (2019) → $50,382 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Decatur, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical and clinical laboratory technologists more: Birmingham or Decatur?
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Should I relocate from Birmingham to Decatur as a medical and clinical laboratory technologist?
What do entry-level medical and clinical laboratory technologists earn in Birmingham vs Decatur?
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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