Athens vs Columbus: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Athens, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,453 | $84,269▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.19 | $40.51▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,974▲ | $51,416 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,529▲ | $67,900 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,795▲ | $87,543 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,904 | $102,695▲ |
| Total Employed | 90 | 90 |
Verdict
Columbus, GA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Athens.
The salary gap between Athens and Columbus is $4,816 (6.06%). Columbus's median is -16.86% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $41,930,Columbus spans $51,279. Columbus 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, Columbus ($94,370 effective) pays 10.87% more than Athens ($85,119 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,269/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,695)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $94,370)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Athens grew 10.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 52.2% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Athens, GA
$68,320 (2019) → $75,720 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$52,780 (2019) → $80,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Athens or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Athens and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Athens to Columbus as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Athens vs Columbus?
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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