Lakewood vs San Francisco: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Lakewood, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lakewood, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $133,158 | $168,171▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $64.02 | $80.85▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $95,993 | $99,264▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,842 | $129,463▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $147,649 | $190,123▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $177,763 | $214,204▲ |
| Total Employed | 19 | 1,300▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lakewood.
The salary gap between Lakewood and San Francisco is $35,013 (26.29%). 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 Lakewood spans $81,770,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 23.55% more than Lakewood ($117,735 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lakewood 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 Lakewood grew -7.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.6% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Lakewood, CA
$136,681 (2024) → $126,902 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$114,790 (2019) → $160,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lakewood, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Lakewood or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lakewood and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Lakewood to San Francisco as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Lakewood vs San Francisco?
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