Grand Rapids vs Southfield: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Southfield, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Southfield, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,976▲ | $85,927 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.81▲ | $41.31 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,586▲ | $58,139 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,796▲ | $69,328 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,129 | $97,678▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,921 | $118,381▲ |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 19 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Southfield.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Southfield is $1,049 (1.22%). Grand Rapids's median is -14.18% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Rapids spans $27,335,Southfield spans $60,242. Southfield 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, Southfield ($92,196 effective) pays 1.28% more than Grand Rapids ($91,030 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,976/year)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Southfield if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,381)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,196)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Grand Rapids grew 35.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.9% growth in Southfield over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$60,980 (2019) → $82,890 (2025)
Southfield, MI
$72,502 (2024) → $81,890 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Southfield, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Grand Rapids or Southfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Southfield?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Southfield as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Grand Rapids vs Southfield?
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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