Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Marshalltown, IA: $61,200 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Marshalltown, IA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $61,200 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Marshalltown's local price level (BEA RPP 90.4 — 10% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $67,699 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($82,818) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those entering the field of ultrasound technology in Marshalltown, Iowa, the starting ultrasound technologist salary is projected at $61,200 in 2026. This figure reflects the lowest ten percent of earners in the field, which means new graduates should set realistic expectations when searching for their first jobs. Compared to the city's median salary of $82,818, there exists a noticeable gap, highlighting a salary progression potential as early-career professionals gain experience. With a projected growth trajectory taking new grads from $61,200 to approximately $68,474 in the first few years, Marshalltown presents a reasonably supportive market for entry-level technologists, with opportunities for salary increases as they advance to the 25th percentile and beyond.
About the Marshalltown Market
Salary estimated from Iowa average ($76,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Marshalltown
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 Marshalltown
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Marshalltown, IA typically start between $61,200 and $68,474 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $45,426 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $82,818 — 18.29% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Iowa of $22,000 represents just 35.95% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($61,200/year) in Marshalltown. 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 Marshalltown
- 1Research the Marshalltown market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $61,200 to $68,474, 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 IA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Marshalltown, 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 Marshalltown for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Marshalltown's below-average 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 Marshalltown is $45,426 ( 74.23%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $61,200, experienced hygienists can earn up to $106,626.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$45,382
2025 BLS Actual
$58,325
2026 Current Est.
$61,200
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Marshalltown (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $45,382 | Actual |
| 2020 | $46,259 | Actual |
| 2021 | $51,290 | Actual |
| 2022 | $52,830 | Actual |
| 2023 | $54,765 | Actual |
| 2024 | $49,888 | Actual |
| 2025 | $58,325 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $61,200 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $64,218 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Marshalltown, IA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $45,382 in 2019 to $58,325 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $64,218. New graduates entering the Marshalltown job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Marshalltown 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 Marshalltown
In Marshalltown, the landscape for entry-level ultrasound positions is primarily dominated by larger healthcare systems and corporate group practices, all of which tend to hire new graduates and offer structured onboarding programs. For aspiring ultrasound technologists, obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing advanced certifications from recognized national bodies can enhance starting pay significantly in Iowa. In the first three years, salary growth can vary based on employer type, regional market conditions, and the certification mix an individual possesses. New graduates can expect to see realistic salary increases as their skills develop, making it crucial to remain engaged in continuing education and pursue professional development opportunities that align with evolving market demands. This strategic approach not only helps them reach the median salary sooner but also positions them well for future opportunities in the healthcare sector within Marshalltown.
More salary data for Marshalltown, IA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Marshalltown in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Marshalltown?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Marshalltown?
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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 Marshalltown. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Marshalltown 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