Bristol vs Virginia Beach: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Bristol, VA and Virginia Beach, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,980 | $90,901▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.93 | $43.70▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,527 | $79,348▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,953 | $84,962▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,818 | $101,646▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,460 | $109,935▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 370▲ |
Verdict
Virginia Beach, VA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bristol.
The salary gap between Bristol and Virginia Beach is $9,921 (12.25%). Virginia Beach's median is -10.31% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bristol spans $41,933,Virginia Beach spans $30,587. Bristol 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, Virginia Beach ($92,812 effective) pays 18.28% more than Bristol ($78,469 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bristol if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,901/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,935)
- ✓Larger job market (370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,812)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Bristol grew -5.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.3% growth in Virginia Beach over the same period.
Bristol, VA
$81,376 (2024) → $77,175 (2025)
Virginia Beach, VA
$71,400 (2019) → $86,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Bristol or Virginia Beach?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Virginia Beach?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Virginia Beach as a ultrasound technologist?
What do entry-level ultrasound technologists earn in Bristol vs Virginia Beach?
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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