Chicago vs Rock Island: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Chicago, IL and Rock Island, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Rock Island, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,162▲ | $87,125 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.00▲ | $41.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,735▲ | $60,083 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,204▲ | $76,104 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,403▲ | $93,813 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,103▲ | $110,197 |
| Total Employed | 2,280▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Rock Island.
The salary gap between Chicago and Rock Island is $21,037 (24.15%). Chicago's median is +6.72% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $43,368,Rock Island spans $50,114. Rock Island 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, Chicago ($104,409 effective) pays 16.36% more than Rock Island ($89,727 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,162/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,103)
- ✓Larger job market (2,280 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,409)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rock Island if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Chicago grew 30.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.7% growth in Rock Island over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$79,120 (2019) → $103,080 (2025)
Rock Island, IL
$79,272 (2024) → $83,032 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Rock Island, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Chicago or Rock Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Rock Island?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Rock Island as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Chicago vs Rock Island?
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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