San Antonio vs Waco: Phlebotomist Salary (2026)
Compare phlebotomist salaries between San Antonio, TX and Waco, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Antonio, TX | Waco, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $40,553 | $44,346▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $19.50 | $21.32▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $36,028▲ | $33,531 |
| 25th Percentile | $37,846 | $38,003▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $48,358▲ | $47,522 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $50,866▲ | $50,270 |
| Total Employed | 1,210▲ | 110 |
Verdict
San Antonio and Waco are closely matched on overall phlebotomist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between San Antonio and Waco is $3,793 (9.35%). Waco's median is -6.17% compared to the US national median of $47,261.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Antonio spans $14,838,Waco spans $16,739. Waco 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, Waco ($47,916 effective) pays 11.91% more than San Antonio ($42,815 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Antonio if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($50,866)
- ✓Larger job market (1,210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Waco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($44,346/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $47,916)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, phlebotomist salaries in San Antonio grew 22.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 34.7% growth in Waco over the same period.
San Antonio, TX
$31,580 (2019) → $38,810 (2025)
Waco, TX
$31,510 (2019) → $42,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Antonio, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays phlebotomists more: San Antonio or Waco?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Antonio and Waco?
Should I relocate from San Antonio to Waco as a phlebotomist?
What do entry-level phlebotomists earn in San Antonio vs Waco?
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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