Chicago vs Waukegan: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Chicago, IL and Waukegan, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Waukegan, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,162▲ | $101,661 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.00▲ | $48.88 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $86,735▲ | $69,565 |
| 25th Percentile | $98,204▲ | $82,531 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,403▲ | $112,159 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,103 | $141,229▲ |
| Total Employed | 2,280▲ | 18 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waukegan.
The salary gap between Chicago and Waukegan is $6,501 (6.39%). 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,Waukegan spans $71,664. Waukegan 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, Waukegan ($104,697 effective) pays 0.28% more than Chicago ($104,409 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)
- ✓Larger job market (2,280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Waukegan if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($141,229)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,697)
- ✓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 18.6% growth in Waukegan over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$79,120 (2019) → $103,080 (2025)
Waukegan, IL
$81,682 (2024) → $96,885 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Waukegan, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Chicago or Waukegan?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Waukegan?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Waukegan as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Chicago vs Waukegan?
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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