Cleveland vs Kettering: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Cleveland, OH and Kettering, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland, OH | Kettering, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $41,535▲ | $41,490 |
| Hourly Rate | $19.97▲ | $19.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $39,999▲ | $33,567 |
| 25th Percentile | $40,459▲ | $35,409 |
| 75th Percentile | $49,215▲ | $45,969 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $50,824 | $55,423▲ |
| Total Employed | 980▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Cleveland, OH offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kettering.
The salary gap between Cleveland and Kettering is $45 (0.11%). Cleveland's median is -12.12% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland spans $10,825,Kettering spans $21,856. Kettering has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced phlebotomists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Kettering ($45,744 effective) pays 3.44% more than Cleveland ($44,222 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($41,535/year)
- ✓Larger job market (980 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Kettering if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($55,423)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $45,744)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Cleveland grew 6.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.0% growth in Kettering over the same period.
Cleveland, OH
$37,230 (2019) → $39,750 (2025)
Kettering, OH
$33,661 (2024) → $39,707 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Kettering, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Cleveland or Kettering?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cleveland and Kettering?
Should I relocate from Cleveland to Kettering as a phlebotomist?
What do entry-level phlebotomists earn in Cleveland vs Kettering?
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Written by Aisha Patel, MLT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in clinical laboratory technology. She specializes in blood collection and processing. She works in a large urban hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.49% 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 Aisha Patel, MLT, a licensed phlebotomist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov