Aiken vs Charleston: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Aiken, SC and Charleston, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aiken, SC | Charleston, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,906 | $92,422▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.27 | $44.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,568 | $81,006▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,607 | $87,396▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $96,631 | $113,555▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $114,869▲ | $113,555 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Charleston, SC offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Aiken.
The salary gap between Aiken and Charleston is $4,516 (5.14%). Charleston's median is -8.81% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aiken spans $51,301,Charleston spans $32,549. Aiken 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, Aiken ($96,072 effective) pays 4.95% more than Charleston ($91,541 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aiken if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,869)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,072)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,422/year)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Aiken grew 24.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.5% growth in Charleston over the same period.
Aiken, SC
$67,142 (2024) → $83,776 (2025)
Charleston, SC
$73,710 (2019) → $88,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Aiken or Charleston?
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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