Objective To investigate and compare the growth of Staphylococcus aureus(S.aureus) in raw milk and sterilized milk. Method The growth of S. aureus in raw milk and sterilized milk at different temperature was surveyed by using the third method of GB/T4789.37-2008. The data were analyzed with MicroFit 1.0 software, and the parameters on the growth of S. aureus were analyzed with SPSS statistical software. Results The maximum growth rate (mumax) of S.aureus in raw milk was lower significantly than that in sterilized milk. There was no significant difference on lag time and doubling time of S. aureus both in raw milk and sterilized milk. Conclusion The statistical analysis results showed that the growth of S.aureus in raw milk and sterilized milk was different significantly (P<0.05).