Charlotte vs Hickory: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Charlotte, NC and Hickory, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Hickory, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,513▲ | $87,627 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.77▲ | $42.13 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,919▲ | $73,031 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,501▲ | $82,853 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,543▲ | $88,215 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,272▲ | $104,899 |
| Total Employed | 730▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hickory.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Hickory is $15,886 (18.13%). Charlotte's median is +2.13% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $31,353,Hickory spans $31,868. Hickory 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, Charlotte ($106,333 effective) pays 7.38% more than Hickory ($99,029 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,513/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,272)
- ✓Larger job market (730 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,333)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Hickory if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Charlotte grew 36.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 31.7% growth in Hickory over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$72,100 (2019) → $98,650 (2025)
Hickory, NC
$63,390 (2019) → $83,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Hickory, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Charlotte or Hickory?
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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