Hays vs Topeka: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between Hays, KS and Topeka, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hays, KS | Topeka, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,222 | $48,452▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.34 | $23.29▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $35,402 | $40,009▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $36,111 | $40,009▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $42,829 | $49,633▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $49,750 | $51,148▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Topeka, KS offers better overall compensation for phlebotomists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hays.
The salary gap between Hays and Topeka is $8,230 (20.46%). Topeka's median is +2.52% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hays spans $14,348,Topeka spans $11,139. Hays 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, Topeka ($54,551 effective) pays 23.28% more than Hays ($44,249 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hays if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Topeka if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($48,452/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($51,148)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $54,551)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in Hays grew 19.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.8% growth in Topeka over the same period.
Hays, KS
$32,341 (2024) → $38,494 (2025)
Topeka, KS
$33,650 (2019) → $46,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: Hays or Topeka?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hays and Topeka?
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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