Fort Lauderdale vs Tampa: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,188▲ | $86,169 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.87▲ | $41.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,180 | $66,274▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,226 | $81,709▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,963▲ | $100,166 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,635▲ | $106,074 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 1,090▲ |
Verdict
Fort Lauderdale, FL offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa is $3,019 (3.50%). Fort Lauderdale's median is -12.00% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Lauderdale spans $58,455,Tampa spans $39,800. Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale ($88,480 effective) pays 3.60% more than Tampa ($85,409 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Lauderdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,188/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,635)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $88,480)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,090 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Fort Lauderdale grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.0% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
$74,244 (2024) → $84,998 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$70,180 (2019) → $82,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Fort Lauderdale or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa?
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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