Los Angeles vs Merced: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Merced, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $125,318 | $132,747▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $60.25 | $63.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,999 | $91,177▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $90,219 | $108,021▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $149,861▲ | $146,709 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,660▲ | $176,406 |
| Total Employed | 3,550▲ | 20 |
Verdict
Los Angeles and Merced are closely matched on overall ultrasound technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Merced is $7,429 (5.93%). Merced's median is +30.98% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $116,661,Merced spans $85,229. Los Angeles 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, Merced ($117,371 effective) pays 6.36% 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 Los Angeles if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,660)
- ✓Larger job market (3,550 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Merced if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($132,747/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $117,371)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Los Angeles grew 25.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.2% growth in Merced over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$95,340 (2019) → $119,430 (2025)
Merced, CA
$106,100 (2022) → $126,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Merced, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Los Angeles or Merced?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Merced?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Merced as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Los Angeles vs Merced?
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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