Richmond vs Salem: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Richmond, VA and Salem, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Salem, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,376▲ | $89,188 |
| Hourly Rate | $48.26▲ | $42.87 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,671▲ | $61,059 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,273▲ | $77,663 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,870▲ | $95,713 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,088 | $112,392▲ |
| Total Employed | 440▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Richmond and Salem is $11,188 (12.54%). 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 Richmond spans $24,417,Salem spans $51,333. Salem has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced ultrasound technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Richmond ($102,573 effective) pays 18.69% more than Salem ($86,422 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,392)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Richmond grew 28.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 3.6% growth in Salem over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$74,390 (2019) → $95,660 (2025)
Salem, VA
$82,049 (2024) → $84,998 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Richmond or Salem?
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Should I relocate from Richmond to Salem 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