Forest Grove vs Portland: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Forest Grove, OR and Portland, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Forest Grove, OR | Portland, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $117,259 | $134,751▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $56.38 | $64.78▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,746 | $103,073▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,933 | $111,320▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $126,713 | $137,721▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $149,640▲ | $142,904 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 690▲ |
Verdict
Portland, OR offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Forest Grove.
The salary gap between Forest Grove and Portland is $17,492 (14.92%). Portland's median is +32.95% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Forest Grove spans $67,894,Portland spans $39,831. Forest Grove 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, Portland ($127,822 effective) pays 11.84% more than Forest Grove ($114,288 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Forest Grove if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,640)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Portland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($134,751/year)
- ✓Larger job market (690 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $127,822)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Forest Grove grew 5.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.2% growth in Portland over the same period.
Forest Grove, OR
$106,181 (2024) → $111,750 (2025)
Portland, OR
$94,270 (2019) → $128,420 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Forest Grove, OR
Portland, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Forest Grove or Portland?
What is the hourly rate difference between Forest Grove and Portland?
Should I relocate from Forest Grove to Portland 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