Oakland vs San Francisco: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Oakland, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Oakland, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $171,999▲ | $168,171 |
| Hourly Rate | $82.70▲ | $80.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $115,027▲ | $99,264 |
| 25th Percentile | $138,522▲ | $129,463 |
| 75th Percentile | $196,814▲ | $190,123 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $243,464▲ | $214,204 |
| Total Employed | 78 | 1,300▲ |
Verdict
Oakland, CA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to San Francisco.
The salary gap between Oakland and San Francisco is $3,828 (2.28%). Oakland's median is +69.70% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Oakland spans $128,437,San Francisco spans $114,940. Oakland 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, Oakland ($152,077 effective) pays 4.55% more than San Francisco ($145,460 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Oakland if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($171,999/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($243,464)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $152,077)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Oakland grew 8.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.6% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Oakland, CA
$150,608 (2024) → $163,918 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$114,790 (2019) → $160,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Oakland, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Oakland or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Oakland and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Oakland to San Francisco 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