Hilo vs Urban Honolulu: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Hilo, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hilo, HI | Urban Honolulu, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $114,738 | $129,137▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $55.16 | $62.09▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,107 | $85,329▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $96,912 | $118,539▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $127,113 | $136,042▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $150,981▲ | $142,348 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Urban Honolulu, HI offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hilo.
The salary gap between Hilo and Urban Honolulu is $14,399 (12.55%). Urban Honolulu's median is +27.41% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hilo spans $66,874,Urban Honolulu spans $57,019. Hilo 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, Urban Honolulu ($116,381 effective) pays 21.01% more than Hilo ($96,176 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hilo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($150,981)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Choose Urban Honolulu if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,137/year)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,381)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Hilo grew -7.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 16.3% growth in Urban Honolulu over the same period.
Hilo, HI
$117,736 (2024) → $109,347 (2025)
Urban Honolulu, HI
$105,840 (2019) → $123,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Urban Honolulu, HI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Hilo or Urban Honolulu?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hilo and Urban Honolulu?
Should I relocate from Hilo to Urban Honolulu as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Hilo vs Urban Honolulu?
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