Arlington Heights vs Chicago: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Arlington Heights, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,901 | $108,162▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.03 | $52.00▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,553 | $86,735▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,994 | $98,204▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $111,924 | $118,403▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $135,283▲ | $130,103 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 2,280▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Arlington Heights.
The salary gap between Arlington Heights and Chicago is $8,261 (8.27%). Chicago's median is +6.72% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Arlington Heights spans $61,730,Chicago spans $43,368. Arlington Heights 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, Chicago ($104,409 effective) pays 1.48% more than Arlington Heights ($102,885 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Arlington Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($135,283)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,162/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,409)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Arlington Heights grew 18.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.3% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Arlington Heights, IL
$80,267 (2024) → $95,207 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$79,120 (2019) → $103,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Arlington Heights, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Arlington Heights or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Arlington Heights and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Arlington Heights to Chicago as a ultrasound technologist?
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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