Chico vs Los Angeles: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Chico, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chico, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,987▲ | $125,318 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.50▲ | $60.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $98,613▲ | $59,999 |
| 25th Percentile | $114,374▲ | $90,219 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,906 | $149,861▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $158,822 | $176,660▲ |
| Total Employed | 80 | 3,550▲ |
Verdict
Chico and Los Angeles are closely matched on overall ultrasound technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chico and Los Angeles is $4,669 (3.73%). Chico's median is +28.25% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chico spans $60,209,Los Angeles spans $116,661. Los Angeles 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, Chico ($128,449 effective) pays 16.40% more than Los Angeles ($110,348 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chico if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,987/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,449)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,660)
- ✓Larger job market (3,550 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Chico grew 30.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 25.3% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Chico, CA
$95,070 (2019) → $123,880 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$95,340 (2019) → $119,430 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Chico or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chico and Los Angeles?
Should I relocate from Chico to Los Angeles as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Chico vs Los Angeles?
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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