Des Plaines vs Springfield: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Des Plaines, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Plaines, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,140 | $103,325▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.19 | $49.67▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,505 | $84,689▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,285 | $85,287▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,888 | $108,319▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,459▲ | $114,206 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, IL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Plaines.
The salary gap between Des Plaines and Springfield is $5,185 (5.28%). Springfield's median is +1.95% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Plaines spans $59,954,Springfield spans $29,517. Des Plaines has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($111,408 effective) pays 10.23% more than Des Plaines ($101,071 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Plaines if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,459)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,325/year)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,408)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Des Plaines grew 18.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.1% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Des Plaines, IL
$78,852 (2024) → $93,529 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$75,680 (2019) → $98,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Plaines, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Des Plaines or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Plaines and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Des Plaines to Springfield as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Des Plaines vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
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