Indianapolis vs West Lafayette: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and West Lafayette, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | West Lafayette, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,866▲ | $83,659 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.17▲ | $40.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,666▲ | $62,164 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,073▲ | $71,281 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,651▲ | $93,157 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,235 | $111,279▲ |
| Total Employed | 420▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Indianapolis, IN offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to West Lafayette.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and West Lafayette is $8,207 (9.81%). Indianapolis's median is -9.36% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Indianapolis spans $39,569,West Lafayette spans $49,115. West Lafayette 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, Indianapolis ($95,998 effective) pays 4.77% more than West Lafayette ($91,631 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,866/year)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,998)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose West Lafayette if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,279)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Indianapolis grew 16.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 23.6% growth in West Lafayette over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$75,460 (2019) → $87,550 (2025)
West Lafayette, IN
$64,510 (2024) → $79,728 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
West Lafayette, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Indianapolis or West Lafayette?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and West Lafayette?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to West Lafayette as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Indianapolis vs West Lafayette?
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