Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Kuna, ID: $71,357 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Kuna, ID job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $71,357 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Kuna's local price level (BEA RPP 95.3 — 5% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $74,876 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($93,410) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of ultrasound technology in Kuna, ID, expectations for starting pay are generally aligned with the projected entry-level salary of around $71,357 in 2026. This initial figure is on the lower side compared to the overall median salary of $93,410 for ultrasound technologists in the region, reflecting a typical gap for early-career professionals. However, there is potential for growth, as entry-level technologists can expect to see their income progress from the 10th percentile to the 25th percentile, reaching approximately $81,029 within a few years. Given the competitive compensation landscape influenced by a projected growth rate of 4.93%, Kuna represents a promising market for new graduates seeking to launch their ultrasound careers.
About the Kuna Market
Salary estimated from Idaho average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Kuna
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 Kuna
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Kuna, ID typically start between $71,357 and $81,029 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $51,645 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $93,410 — 7.84% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Idaho of $22,000 represents just 30.83% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($71,357/year) in Kuna. 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 Kuna
- 1Research the Kuna market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $71,357 to $81,029, 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 ID often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Kuna, 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 Kuna for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Kuna'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 Kuna is $51,645 ( 72.38%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $71,357, experienced hygienists can earn up to $123,002.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$52,913
2025 BLS Actual
$68,004
2026 Current Est.
$71,357
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Kuna (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $52,913 | Actual |
| 2020 | $53,936 | Actual |
| 2021 | $59,802 | Actual |
| 2022 | $61,597 | Actual |
| 2023 | $63,853 | Actual |
| 2024 | $59,502 | Actual |
| 2025 | $68,004 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $71,357 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $74,874 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Kuna, ID grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $52,913 in 2019 to $68,004 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $74,874. New graduates entering the Kuna job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Kuna 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 Kuna
For those looking to secure positions as entry-level ultrasound technologists in Kuna, major health systems and corporate practices are often the most reliable employers. These organizations typically offer structured onboarding and mentorship programs, greatly benefiting new graduates. Obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing additional certifications can substantially enhance earning potential in Idaho's job market. In the first few years, salary increases often correspond to experience gained and skills acquired, with many early-career professionals witnessing gradual pay rises as they adapt to workplace demands and responsibilities. Realistically, new grads may see modest salary boosts, but continued education and specialized training could significantly elevate their earning prospects as they transition into more advanced roles.
More salary data for Kuna, ID:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Kuna in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Kuna?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Kuna?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Kuna?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Idaho?
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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 Kuna. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Kuna 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