Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Evanston, IL: $67,926 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Evanston, IL job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $67,926 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Evanston's local price level (BEA RPP 97.1 — 3% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $69,955 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($100,946) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Evanston's entry-level ultrasound technologist salaries are projected to start at around $67,926 in 2026, a competitive figure for new graduates entering the field. This starting salary is markedly lower than the city's overall median of $100,946, indicating a significant gap for recent entrants. However, as new technologists gain experience, there is a promising growth trajectory. Over the first few years, starting salaries can rise to approximately $81,087 at the 25th percentile, enhancing prospects for career advancement. With a projected annual growth rate of 4.93%, the Evanston market appears to be a beneficial environment for new graduates, allowing them to establish their careers in an evolving healthcare landscape.
About the Evanston Market
Salary estimated from Illinois average ($84,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Evanston
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 Evanston
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Evanston, IL typically start between $67,926 and $81,087 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $70,613 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $100,946 — 0.4% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Illinois of $28,000 represents just 41.22% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($67,926/year) in Evanston. 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 Evanston
- 1Research the Evanston market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $67,926 to $81,087, 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 IL often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Evanston, 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 Evanston for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Evanston'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 Evanston is $70,613 ( 103.96%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $67,926, experienced hygienists can earn up to $138,539.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$50,370
2025 BLS Actual
$64,735
2026 Current Est.
$67,926
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Evanston (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $50,370 | Actual |
| 2020 | $51,343 | Actual |
| 2021 | $56,927 | Actual |
| 2022 | $58,636 | Actual |
| 2023 | $60,783 | Actual |
| 2024 | $56,420 | Actual |
| 2025 | $64,735 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $67,926 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $71,275 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Evanston, IL grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $50,370 in 2019 to $64,735 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $71,275. New graduates entering the Evanston job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Evanston 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 Evanston
Job opportunities for newly licensed ultrasound technologists in Evanston often stem from large hospital systems and corporate group practices that actively recruit fresh graduates. These employers typically provide structured onboarding programs that facilitate a smooth transition into the workforce. It is essential for new professionals to keep their credentials up to date; obtaining state licensure and pursuing advanced certifications recognized by the national body can lead to higher starting salaries. During the initial 1-3 years in this role, compensation may vary widely based on the employer type and geographic location. A career strategy focusing on networking and specialization can ensure realistic and steady salary growth, aligning with the competitive landscape in Illinois for ultrasound technologists.
More salary data for Evanston, IL:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Evanston in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Evanston?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Evanston?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Evanston?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Illinois?
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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 Evanston. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Evanston 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