Buffalo vs Elmira: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Buffalo, NY and Elmira, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Buffalo, NY | Elmira, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,107▲ | $97,055 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.09▲ | $46.66 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,041▲ | $70,747 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,742▲ | $81,684 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,500 | $105,146▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,812 | $123,811▲ |
| Total Employed | 360▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Buffalo, NY offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elmira.
The salary gap between Buffalo and Elmira is $5,052 (5.21%). Buffalo's median is +0.74% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Buffalo spans $28,771,Elmira spans $53,064. Elmira 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, Buffalo ($106,535 effective) pays 27.22% more than Elmira ($83,740 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,107/year)
- ✓Larger job market (360 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,535)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Elmira if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,811)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Buffalo grew 28.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.4% growth in Elmira over the same period.
Buffalo, NY
$75,520 (2019) → $97,310 (2025)
Elmira, NY
$77,450 (2021) → $92,495 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Buffalo, NY
Elmira, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Buffalo or Elmira?
What is the hourly rate difference between Buffalo and Elmira?
Should I relocate from Buffalo to Elmira as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Buffalo vs Elmira?
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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