I would think there's an in between here. Dealer at the high end (of price), tire guys at the lower end. I think more has to do with the guy doing the work & his equipment, than where he's located (dealer/Firestone etc).

Personally, my indy has a machine for doing 4 wheel alignments. Always been right on the money and if the car "changes", he puts it on the rack to see what "happened". Had a car which I swapped wheels, then it started pulling left.....he traced to a bad rim.....no charge.

FWIW, dealers make their money in the back room (service). You're always going to pay a premium and be prepared for the upsell on all the other "stuff" they'll tell you it needs (while it's there). Some are better than others, but I stay away with all my cars/trucks.

Don't want to start a peeing contest over dealers etc.

Just my .02