Fort Collins vs Lakewood: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Fort Collins, CO and Lakewood, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Collins, CO | Lakewood, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,152 | $112,537▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $53.44 | $54.10▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $90,051▲ | $80,667 |
| 25th Percentile | $99,841▲ | $94,375 |
| 75th Percentile | $117,438 | $126,899▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,914 | $154,709▲ |
| Total Employed | N/A | 27 |
Verdict
Lakewood, CO offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fort Collins.
The salary gap between Fort Collins and Lakewood is $1,385 (1.25%). Lakewood's median is +11.04% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Collins spans $39,863,Lakewood spans $74,042. Lakewood 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, Fort Collins ($109,912 effective) pays 2.55% more than Lakewood ($107,178 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Collins if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,912)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Lakewood if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,537/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($154,709)
- ✓Larger job market (27 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Fort Collins grew 30.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 10.9% growth in Lakewood over the same period.
Fort Collins, CO
$81,350 (2019) → $105,930 (2025)
Lakewood, CO
$96,672 (2024) → $107,250 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Collins, CO
Lakewood, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Fort Collins or Lakewood?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Collins and Lakewood?
Should I relocate from Fort Collins to Lakewood as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Fort Collins vs Lakewood?
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