Detroit vs Ann Arbor: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Detroit, MI and Ann Arbor, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Ann Arbor, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,386 | $89,316▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.01 | $42.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,174 | $81,657▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,622 | $88,015▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $97,155 | $100,901▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,345 | $102,538▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,490▲ | 200 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Detroit.
The salary gap between Detroit and Ann Arbor is $1,930 (2.21%). Ann Arbor's median is -11.88% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $29,171,Ann Arbor spans $20,881. Detroit 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, Ann Arbor ($88,537 effective) pays 1.62% more than Detroit ($87,126 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,316/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,538)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $88,537)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Detroit grew 26.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.8% growth in Ann Arbor over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$65,620 (2019) → $83,280 (2025)
Ann Arbor, MI
$66,100 (2019) → $85,120 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Ann Arbor, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Detroit or Ann Arbor?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Ann Arbor?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Ann Arbor as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Detroit vs Ann Arbor?
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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