Rochester vs Watertown: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Rochester, NY and Watertown, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Watertown, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,116 | $101,686▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.41 | $48.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,254▲ | $73,545 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,097 | $82,895▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,803 | $109,596▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,847 | $129,292▲ |
| Total Employed | 400▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Watertown, NY offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Rochester and Watertown is $15,570 (18.08%). Watertown's median is +0.33% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $28,593,Watertown spans $55,747. Watertown 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, Rochester ($88,747 effective) pays 1.15% more than Watertown ($87,736 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $88,747)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($101,686/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,292)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Rochester grew 13.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$72,370 (2019) → $82,070 (2025)
Watertown, NY
$77,630 (2021) → $96,908 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Watertown, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Rochester or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Watertown 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