San Diego vs Fresno: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between San Diego, CA and Fresno, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Fresno, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,021▲ | $113,062 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.39▲ | $54.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,509 | $80,964▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $108,991▲ | $101,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $154,436▲ | $142,915 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,345▲ | $171,970 |
| Total Employed | 720▲ | 390 |
Verdict
San Diego, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fresno.
The salary gap between San Diego and Fresno is $22,959 (20.31%). San Diego's median is +34.21% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Diego spans $107,836,Fresno spans $91,006. San Diego 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, San Diego ($121,570 effective) pays 9.85% more than Fresno ($110,674 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,021/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,345)
- ✓Larger job market (720 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,570)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Fresno if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in San Diego grew 29.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 13.6% growth in Fresno over the same period.
San Diego, CA
$100,400 (2019) → $129,630 (2025)
Fresno, CA
$94,850 (2019) → $107,750 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Diego, CA
Fresno, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: San Diego or Fresno?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Diego and Fresno?
Should I relocate from San Diego to Fresno 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