Carlsbad vs Los Angeles: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Carlsbad, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carlsbad, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $134,883▲ | $125,318 |
| Hourly Rate | $64.85▲ | $60.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $96,312▲ | $59,999 |
| 25th Percentile | $110,319▲ | $90,219 |
| 75th Percentile | $152,227▲ | $149,861 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $185,648▲ | $176,660 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 3,550▲ |
Verdict
Carlsbad, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Los Angeles.
The salary gap between Carlsbad and Los Angeles is $9,565 (7.63%). Carlsbad's median is +33.08% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carlsbad spans $89,336,Los Angeles spans $116,661. Los Angeles 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, Carlsbad ($119,260 effective) pays 8.08% more than Los Angeles ($110,348 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carlsbad if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,883/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($185,648)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $119,260)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Larger job market (3,550 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Carlsbad grew -8.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.3% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Carlsbad, CA
$140,462 (2024) → $128,546 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$95,340 (2019) → $119,430 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carlsbad, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Carlsbad or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carlsbad and Los Angeles?
Should I relocate from Carlsbad to Los Angeles as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Carlsbad vs Los Angeles?
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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