Detroit vs Traverse City: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Detroit, MI and Traverse City, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Traverse City, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,386▲ | $81,536 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.01▲ | $39.20 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,174▲ | $58,689 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,622▲ | $67,788 |
| 75th Percentile | $97,155▲ | $86,881 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,345 | $100,674▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,490▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Traverse City.
The salary gap between Detroit and Traverse City is $5,850 (7.17%). Detroit's median is -13.78% 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,Traverse City spans $41,985. Traverse City 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, Traverse City ($87,485 effective) pays 0.41% 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…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,386/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,490 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Traverse City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($100,674)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,485)
- ✓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 -2.7% growth in Traverse City over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$65,620 (2019) → $83,280 (2025)
Traverse City, MI
$79,900 (2024) → $77,705 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Traverse City, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Detroit or Traverse City?
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Should I relocate from Detroit to Traverse City as a ultrasound technologist?
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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