Cedar Rapids vs Marion: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Cedar Rapids, IA and Marion, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cedar Rapids, IA | Marion, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,743▲ | $85,504 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.63▲ | $41.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,168▲ | $60,533 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,570▲ | $70,704 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,710▲ | $93,158 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,457▲ | $110,044 |
| Total Employed | 70▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Cedar Rapids, IA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Marion.
The salary gap between Cedar Rapids and Marion is $5,239 (6.13%). Cedar Rapids's median is -10.47% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cedar Rapids spans $28,289,Marion spans $49,511. Marion 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, Cedar Rapids ($102,001 effective) pays 7.84% more than Marion ($94,584 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cedar Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,743/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,457)
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,001)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Marion if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Cedar Rapids grew 20.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.6% growth in Marion over the same period.
Cedar Rapids, IA
$71,520 (2019) → $86,480 (2025)
Marion, IA
$67,557 (2024) → $81,487 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cedar Rapids, IA
Marion, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Cedar Rapids or Marion?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cedar Rapids and Marion?
Should I relocate from Cedar Rapids to Marion as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Cedar Rapids vs Marion?
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