Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Richmond, CA: $92,243 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Richmond, CA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $92,243 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Richmond's local price level (BEA RPP 113.1 — 13% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $81,559 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($139,216) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the ultrasound technologist field in Richmond, California can expect to see a starting salary very close to $92,243, which marks the entry point of the pay scale for this profession. While this figure is significantly lower than the median annual salary in the city of $139,216, it sets a realistic expectation for recent graduates. Over the first few years, entry-level professionals can anticipate gradual growth in their earnings, eventually reaching the 25th percentile salary of $111,455 as they gain experience and skills, which leads to a strong upward trajectory. The Richmond job market demonstrates potential for new graduates due to the continued demand for skilled healthcare workers, underscored by indications of a 4.93% annual growth rate in compensation over the next few years.
About the Richmond Market
Salary estimated from California average ($124,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Richmond
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Richmond
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Richmond, CA typically start between $92,243 and $111,455 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $95,233 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $139,216 — 37.36% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in California of $30,000 represents just 32.52% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($92,243/year) in Richmond. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on accredited program data and state workforce commission reports. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution type.
Ultrasound Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Richmond
- 1Research the Richmond market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $92,243 to $111,455, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the medical imaging field — employers in CA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Richmond, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Richmond for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Richmond's above-average cost of living (index: 113.1) when evaluating offers — a slightly lower salary in a nearby affordable area may provide better purchasing power.
Ultrasound Technologist Compensation Range
The ultrasound technologist wage spread in Richmond is $95,233 ( 103.24%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $92,243, experienced hygienists can earn up to $187,476.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$68,401
2025 BLS Actual
$87,909
2026 Current Est.
$92,243
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Richmond (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $68,401 | Actual |
| 2020 | $69,723 | Actual |
| 2021 | $77,306 | Actual |
| 2022 | $79,626 | Actual |
| 2023 | $82,543 | Actual |
| 2024 | $97,867 | Actual |
| 2025 | $87,909 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $92,243 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $96,790 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Richmond, CA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $68,401 in 2019 to $87,909 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $96,790. New graduates entering the Richmond job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Richmond metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 4.93% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your medical imaging Career in Richmond
When seeking employment, newly credentialed ultrasound technologists in Richmond should focus on large hospital systems and corporate group practices, which typically offer structured onboarding programs tailored for entry-level staff. Obtaining state licensure and pursuing advanced certifications can significantly enhance starting pay in California, as these credentials are increasingly favored by employers. In the initial years of their careers, professionals should strategically seek experience and training opportunities, knowing that salary growth can be substantial; with an increase of approximately 12% from entry-level to the 25th percentile expected within the first three years. This approach enables new professionals to maximize their earning potential while continuously improving their skill set in a competitive market.
More salary data for Richmond, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Richmond in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Richmond?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Richmond?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Richmond?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in California?
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new medical imaging graduates. A 4.93% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Richmond. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Richmond is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.93%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for ultrasound technologists (SOC 29-2032).
Compiled and verified by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT, a licensed ultrasound technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov