Des Moines vs West Des Moines: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Des Moines, IA and West Des Moines, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | West Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,373▲ | $90,193 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.93▲ | $43.36 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,961▲ | $65,401 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,449▲ | $74,007 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,503▲ | $100,433 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,609 | $120,650▲ |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to West Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and West Des Moines is $1,180 (1.31%). Des Moines's median is -9.85% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $24,648,West Des Moines spans $55,249. West Des Moines 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, West Des Moines ($99,771 effective) pays 0.13% more than Des Moines ($99,642 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,373/year)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose West Des Moines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,650)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,771)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Des Moines grew 13.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.0% growth in West Des Moines over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$76,470 (2019) → $87,080 (2025)
West Des Moines, IA
$67,138 (2024) → $85,955 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
West Des Moines, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Des Moines or West Des Moines?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and West Des Moines?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to West Des Moines as a ultrasound technologist?
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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