Reston vs Richmond: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Reston, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Reston, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,956 | $100,376▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.25 | $48.26▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,333 | $83,671▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,860 | $86,273▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,247 | $103,870▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,464▲ | $108,088 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 440▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Reston.
The salary gap between Reston and Richmond is $10,420 (11.58%). Richmond's median is -0.96% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Reston spans $55,131,Richmond spans $24,417. Reston 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, Richmond ($102,573 effective) pays 17.67% more than Reston ($87,167 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Reston if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,464)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,376/year)
- ✓Larger job market (440 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,573)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Reston grew 3.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.6% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Reston, VA
$82,756 (2024) → $85,730 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$74,390 (2019) → $95,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Reston, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Reston or Richmond?
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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