Laguna Niguel vs San Francisco: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Laguna Niguel, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Laguna Niguel, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $132,661 | $168,171▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $63.78 | $80.85▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $94,310 | $99,264▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $110,753 | $129,463▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $149,416 | $190,123▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $180,961 | $214,204▲ |
| Total Employed | 16 | 1,300▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Laguna Niguel.
The salary gap between Laguna Niguel and San Francisco is $35,510 (26.77%). San Francisco's median is +65.93% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Laguna Niguel spans $86,651,San Francisco spans $114,940. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($145,460 effective) pays 24.01% more than Laguna Niguel ($117,295 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Laguna Niguel if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($168,171/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($214,204)
- ✓Larger job market (1,300 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $145,460)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Laguna Niguel grew -7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.6% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Laguna Niguel, CA
$136,170 (2024) → $126,428 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$114,790 (2019) → $160,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Laguna Niguel, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Laguna Niguel or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Laguna Niguel and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Laguna Niguel to San Francisco as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Laguna Niguel vs San Francisco?
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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