Seattle vs Tacoma: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Seattle, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $136,367▲ | $134,092 |
| Hourly Rate | $65.56▲ | $64.47 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,934 | $91,704▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $109,348 | $109,652▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $145,286 | $155,232▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $170,018 | $192,330▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,190▲ | 56 |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tacoma.
The salary gap between Seattle and Tacoma is $2,275 (1.70%). Seattle's median is +34.55% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $106,084,Tacoma spans $100,626. Seattle 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, Tacoma ($124,853 effective) pays 1.75% more than Seattle ($122,706 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($136,367/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($192,330)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $124,853)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Seattle grew 38.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.9% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$94,020 (2019) → $129,960 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$121,830 (2024) → $127,792 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Seattle or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Tacoma?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Tacoma as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Seattle vs Tacoma?
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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