Birmingham vs Opelika: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Opelika, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Opelika, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $73,336▲ | $70,912 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.26▲ | $34.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,906▲ | $53,946 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,201▲ | $61,402 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,073▲ | $78,439 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $86,599 | $93,201▲ |
| Total Employed | 450▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Opelika.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Opelika is $2,424 (3.42%). Birmingham's median is -27.64% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $23,693,Opelika spans $39,255. Opelika 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, Opelika ($80,673 effective) pays 0.81% more than Birmingham ($80,023 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($73,336/year)
- ✓Larger job market (450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Opelika if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($93,201)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $80,673)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Birmingham grew 13.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.1% growth in Opelika over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$61,840 (2019) → $69,890 (2025)
Opelika, AL
$57,731 (2024) → $67,580 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Opelika, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Birmingham or Opelika?
What is the hourly rate difference between Birmingham and Opelika?
Should I relocate from Birmingham to Opelika as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Birmingham vs Opelika?
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