Boulder vs Golden: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Boulder, CO and Golden, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Boulder, CO | Golden, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $120,271▲ | $103,503 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.83▲ | $49.76 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $104,909▲ | $78,334 |
| 25th Percentile | $104,909▲ | $88,920 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,055▲ | $112,870 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $143,397▲ | $132,093 |
| Total Employed | 160▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Boulder, CO offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Golden.
The salary gap between Boulder and Golden is $16,768 (16.20%). Boulder's median is +18.67% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Boulder spans $38,488,Golden spans $53,759. Golden 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, Boulder ($114,324 effective) pays 15.98% more than Golden ($98,574 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Boulder if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($120,271/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($143,397)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,324)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Golden if…
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Boulder grew 27.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.9% growth in Golden over the same period.
Boulder, CO
$89,780 (2019) → $114,620 (2025)
Golden, CO
$88,912 (2024) → $98,640 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Boulder, CO
Golden, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Boulder or Golden?
What is the hourly rate difference between Boulder and Golden?
Should I relocate from Boulder to Golden as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Boulder vs Golden?
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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