Elko vs Reno: Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries between Elko, NV and Reno, NV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elko, NV | Reno, NV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $67,012▲ | $54,535 |
| Hourly Rate | $32.22▲ | $26.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,374 | $49,576▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $53,698▲ | $51,542 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,584▲ | $66,866 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,190 | $122,613▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 470▲ |
Verdict
Elko and Reno are closely matched on overall medical and clinical laboratory technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Elko and Reno is $12,477 (22.88%). Elko's median is -2.51% compared to the US national median of $68,734.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elko spans $51,816,Reno spans $73,037. Reno has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced medical and clinical laboratory technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Elko ($68,171 effective) pays 26.27% more than Reno ($53,988 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elko if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($67,012/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,171)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Choose Reno if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($122,613)
- ✓Larger job market (470 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nevada area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, medical and clinical laboratory technologist salaries in Elko grew -4.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.6% growth in Reno over the same period.
Elko, NV
$68,063 (2024) → $65,035 (2025)
Reno, NV
$47,870 (2019) → $52,926 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays medical and clinical laboratory technologists more: Elko or Reno?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elko and Reno?
Should I relocate from Elko to Reno as a medical and clinical laboratory technologist?
What do entry-level medical and clinical laboratory technologists earn in Elko vs Reno?
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