Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Loveland, CO: $76,751 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Loveland, CO job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $76,751 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Loveland's local price level (BEA RPP 105.0 — 5% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $73,096 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($108,489) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
New graduates entering the field of ultrasound technology in Loveland, Colorado can expect a starting salary around $76,751 in 2026. This figure reflects the lowest ten percent of earners in the area, indicating the entry-level pay may be lower than the city’s median annual salary of $108,489. However, there is potential for growth as one gains experience; after three to five years, salaries may realistically rise to $89,959 or even approach the median as technologists develop their skills and expertise. For new graduates contemplating opportunities in Loveland, this market presents a favorable outlook, bolstered by a growth rate of 4.93% annually for the profession, suggesting a consistent demand for skilled ultrasound technologists in the region.
About the Loveland Market
Salary estimated from Colorado average ($92,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Loveland
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 Loveland
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Loveland, CO typically start between $76,751 and $89,959 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $65,979 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $108,489 — 7.04% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Colorado of $30,000 represents just 39.09% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($76,751/year) in Loveland. 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 Loveland
- 1Research the Loveland market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $76,751 to $89,959, 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 CO often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Loveland, 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 Loveland for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Loveland's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Ultrasound Technologist Compensation Range
The ultrasound technologist wage spread in Loveland is $65,979 ( 85.97%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $76,751, experienced hygienists can earn up to $142,730.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$56,913
2025 BLS Actual
$73,145
2026 Current Est.
$76,751
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Loveland (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $56,913 | Actual |
| 2020 | $58,013 | Actual |
| 2021 | $64,323 | Actual |
| 2022 | $66,253 | Actual |
| 2023 | $68,680 | Actual |
| 2024 | $68,157 | Actual |
| 2025 | $73,145 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $76,751 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $80,535 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Loveland, CO grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $56,913 in 2019 to $73,145 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $80,535. New graduates entering the Loveland job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Loveland 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 Loveland
Employers in Loveland who actively hire entry-level ultrasound technologists typically include large hospital systems and corporate group practices known for structured onboarding programs, which can be very appealing to recent graduates. To enhance starting pay in Colorado, obtaining state licensure is crucial, while pursuing optional advanced certifications recognized by national bodies in the field can significantly elevate one’s marketability. In the first few years, those beginning in this profession should expect compensation to vary widely based on employer type and the specific credentials held, creating ample opportunity for salary growth. Realistically, entry-level ultrasound technologists may see salary increases aligning with the industry’s demand, leading to earnings that could surpass initial expectations if they pursue additional qualifications and maintain a commitment to professional development.
More salary data for Loveland, CO:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Loveland in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Loveland?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Loveland?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Loveland?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Colorado?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in Colorado
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 Loveland. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Loveland 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