Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Bristol, CT: $71,475 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Bristol, CT job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $71,475 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Bristol's local price level (BEA RPP 107.9 — 8% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $66,242 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($106,830) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Starting a career as an ultrasound technologist in Bristol, Connecticut, offers newly minted professionals a starting salary of about $71,475 in 2026. This initial pay is significantly lower than the city’s median annual salary of $106,830, which means that new graduates might find themselves on the lower end of the compensation scale. However, the potential growth in earnings within the first few years is promising; entry-level technologists can expect to gradually move toward $91,916 and, eventually, the median salary as they gain experience. With a robust job market for ultrasound technologists and an anticipated annual growth rate of 4.93% in this field, Bristol currently represents a favorable environment for those just beginning their careers in healthcare.
About the Bristol Market
Salary estimated from Connecticut average ($96,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Bristol
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 Bristol
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Bristol, CT typically start between $71,475 and $91,916 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $74,627 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $106,830 — 5.4% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Connecticut of $38,000 represents just 53.17% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($71,475/year) in Bristol. 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 Bristol
- 1Research the Bristol market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $71,475 to $91,916, 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 CT often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Bristol, 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 Bristol for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Bristol'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 Bristol is $74,627 ( 104.41%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $71,475, experienced hygienists can earn up to $146,102.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$53,001
2025 BLS Actual
$68,117
2026 Current Est.
$71,475
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Bristol (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $53,001 | Actual |
| 2020 | $54,026 | Actual |
| 2021 | $59,901 | Actual |
| 2022 | $61,699 | Actual |
| 2023 | $63,959 | Actual |
| 2024 | $71,086 | Actual |
| 2025 | $68,117 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $71,475 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $74,999 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Bristol, CT grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $53,001 in 2019 to $68,117 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $74,999. New graduates entering the Bristol job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Bristol 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 Bristol
Looking at the local healthcare landscape, many employers in Bristol, such as large hospital systems and corporate group practices, are keen to hire new graduates with a focus on structured onboarding programs. For aspiring ultrasound technologists, obtaining state licensure along with optional advanced certifications recognized nationally can significantly improve starting pay opportunities in Connecticut. During the first three years in this profession, newly licensed technologists might see growth in their salaries based on their employer type and geographic area. Compensation for ultrasound technologists can vary widely, so developing a strategic approach that considers ongoing training and potential career moves will be key for new professionals looking to boost their earning potential in the dynamic healthcare market of Bristol.
More salary data for Bristol, CT:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Bristol in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Bristol?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Bristol?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Bristol?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Connecticut?
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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 Bristol. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Bristol 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