Spearfish vs Watertown: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Spearfish, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Spearfish, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,183 | $90,438▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.36 | $43.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $64,152 | $67,584▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,004▲ | $76,998 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,440 | $97,932▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,727 | $114,631▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 6▲ |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Spearfish.
The salary gap between Spearfish and Watertown is $255 (0.28%). 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 Spearfish spans $46,575,Watertown spans $47,047. 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, Watertown ($97,455 effective) pays 0.28% more than Spearfish ($97,180 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Spearfish 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 Spearfish grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Spearfish, SD
$64,066 (2024) → $85,946 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$64,247 (2024) → $86,189 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Spearfish, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Spearfish or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Spearfish and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Spearfish to Watertown as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Spearfish 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