Grand Rapids vs Traverse City: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Traverse City, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Traverse City, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,976▲ | $81,536 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.81▲ | $39.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,586▲ | $58,689 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,796▲ | $67,788 |
| 75th Percentile | $92,129▲ | $86,881 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $97,921 | $100,674▲ |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Traverse City.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Traverse City is $5,440 (6.67%). 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,Traverse City spans $41,985. Traverse City 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, Grand Rapids ($91,030 effective) pays 4.05% more than Traverse City ($87,485 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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $91,030)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Traverse City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,674)
- ✓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 -2.7% growth in Traverse City over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$60,980 (2019) → $82,890 (2025)
Traverse City, MI
$79,900 (2024) → $77,705 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Traverse City, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Grand Rapids or Traverse City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Traverse City?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Traverse City as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Grand Rapids vs Traverse City?
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