Ann Arbor vs Royal Oak: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Royal Oak, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Royal Oak, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,316▲ | $85,102 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.94▲ | $40.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,657▲ | $63,071 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,015▲ | $72,780 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,901▲ | $95,785 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,538 | $115,652▲ |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Royal Oak.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Royal Oak is $4,214 (4.95%). Ann Arbor's median is -11.88% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $20,881,Royal Oak spans $52,581. Royal Oak has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced ultrasound technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Royal Oak ($91,311 effective) pays 3.13% more than Ann Arbor ($88,537 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,316/year)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Royal Oak if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,652)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $91,311)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Ann Arbor grew 28.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.0% growth in Royal Oak over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$66,100 (2019) → $85,120 (2025)
Royal Oak, MI
$71,805 (2024) → $81,104 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Royal Oak, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Ann Arbor or Royal Oak?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Royal Oak?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Royal Oak as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Ann Arbor vs Royal Oak?
Related Comparisons
Written by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT
Career Analyst
Ravi has 10 years of experience as an ultrasound technologist. He specializes in abdominal and pelvic imaging. He works in a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.93% 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 Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT, a licensed ultrasound technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov