Pierre vs Watertown: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Pierre, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,366 | $90,438▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.49 | $43.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,510 | $67,584▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,138▲ | $76,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,544 | $97,932▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,386 | $114,631▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 6▲ |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pierre.
The salary gap between Pierre and Watertown is $2,072 (2.34%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $50,876,Watertown spans $47,047. Pierre 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, Watertown ($97,455 effective) pays 2.34% more than Pierre ($95,222 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,438/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,631)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,455)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Pierre grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$62,774 (2024) → $84,214 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$64,247 (2024) → $86,189 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Pierre or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pierre and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Pierre to Watertown as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Pierre vs Watertown?
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