Brea vs Riverside: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Brea, CA and Riverside, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Brea, CA | Riverside, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,631▲ | $111,079 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.32▲ | $53.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $94,853▲ | $64,322 |
| 25th Percentile | $109,466▲ | $102,076 |
| 75th Percentile | $143,490▲ | $135,748 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $170,537▲ | $158,046 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 960▲ |
Verdict
Brea, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Riverside.
The salary gap between Brea and Riverside is $18,552 (16.70%). Brea's median is +27.90% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Brea spans $75,684,Riverside spans $93,724. Riverside 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, Brea ($114,616 effective) pays 9.83% more than Riverside ($104,356 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Brea if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,631/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($170,537)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $114,616)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Riverside if…
- ✓Larger job market (960 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Brea grew -7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.2% growth in Riverside over the same period.
Brea, CA
$133,060 (2024) → $123,540 (2025)
Riverside, CA
$85,950 (2019) → $105,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Riverside, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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