Irvine vs Riverside: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Irvine, CA and Riverside, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Irvine, CA | Riverside, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,928▲ | $111,079 |
| Hourly Rate | $68.24▲ | $53.41 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $97,945▲ | $64,322 |
| 25th Percentile | $117,057▲ | $102,076 |
| 75th Percentile | $165,295▲ | $135,748 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $200,398▲ | $158,046 |
| Total Employed | 72 | 960▲ |
Verdict
Irvine, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Riverside.
The salary gap between Irvine and Riverside is $30,849 (27.77%). Irvine's median is +40.03% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Irvine spans $102,453,Riverside spans $93,724. Irvine 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, Irvine ($125,489 effective) pays 20.25% more than Riverside ($104,356 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Irvine if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($141,928/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($200,398)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $125,489)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Riverside if…
- ✓Larger job market (960 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Irvine grew -7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.2% growth in Riverside over the same period.
Irvine, CA
$145,684 (2024) → $135,260 (2025)
Riverside, CA
$85,950 (2019) → $105,860 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Irvine, CA
Riverside, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Irvine or Riverside?
What is the hourly rate difference between Irvine and Riverside?
Should I relocate from Irvine to Riverside as a ultrasound technologist?
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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