Moorhead vs Rochester: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Moorhead, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Moorhead, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,011 | $105,738▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.16 | $50.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,469 | $85,927▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,640 | $98,645▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $102,190 | $123,041▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,797▲ | $126,147 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Moorhead.
The salary gap between Moorhead and Rochester is $9,727 (10.13%). Rochester's median is +4.33% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Moorhead spans $56,328,Rochester spans $40,220. Moorhead 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, Rochester ($116,425 effective) pays 19.44% more than Moorhead ($97,473 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Moorhead if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,797)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,738/year)
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,425)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Moorhead grew 9.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.2% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Moorhead, MN
$83,363 (2024) → $91,500 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$83,120 (2019) → $100,770 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Moorhead, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Moorhead or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Moorhead and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Moorhead to Rochester 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