Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Gaithersburg, MD: $77,414 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Gaithersburg, MD job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $77,414 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Gaithersburg's local price level (BEA RPP 109.3 — 9% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $70,827 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($111,587) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Starting in 2026, new graduates looking to enter the field as ultrasound technologists in Gaithersburg can expect an entry-level salary of around $77,414. While this figure is below the city’s median annual salary of $111,587, it still offers a solid foundation as new professionals begin their careers. Over the first few years, the trajectory can be encouraging; with experience and proficiency, it is realistic to see earnings rise toward the 25th percentile salary of $91,380 in just a few short years. Gaithersburg’s current job market presents a promising outlook, especially for those fresh out of training programs who are eager to embark on their healthcare careers.
About the Gaithersburg Market
Salary estimated from Maryland average ($92,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Gaithersburg
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 Gaithersburg
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Gaithersburg, MD typically start between $77,414 and $91,380 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $67,481 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $111,587 — 10.1% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Maryland of $32,000 represents just 41.34% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($77,414/year) in Gaithersburg. 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 Gaithersburg
- 1Research the Gaithersburg market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $77,414 to $91,380, 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 MD often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Gaithersburg, 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 Gaithersburg for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Gaithersburg'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 Gaithersburg is $67,481 ( 87.17%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $77,414, experienced hygienists can earn up to $144,895.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$57,405
2025 BLS Actual
$73,777
2026 Current Est.
$77,414
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Gaithersburg (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $57,405 | Actual |
| 2020 | $58,515 | Actual |
| 2021 | $64,879 | Actual |
| 2022 | $66,826 | Actual |
| 2023 | $69,273 | Actual |
| 2024 | $72,574 | Actual |
| 2025 | $73,777 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $77,414 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $81,231 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Gaithersburg, MD grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $57,405 in 2019 to $73,777 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $81,231. New graduates entering the Gaithersburg job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Gaithersburg 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 Gaithersburg
Several reputable employers in Gaithersburg actively seek new grad ultrasound technologists, particularly large hospital systems and corporate group practices known for their structured onboarding processes. Attaining state licensure is essential for new professionals, and pursuing optional advanced certifications can further enhance earning potential in Maryland. In the first one to three years of employment, salary growth can be significant, especially as new hires gain experience and may transition into roles within higher-paying facilities or specialties. Those entering the profession should expect to see a competitive salary progression reflective of the varied employer types and geographic factors impacting compensation in the area of ultrasound technology.
More salary data for Gaithersburg, MD:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Gaithersburg in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Gaithersburg?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Gaithersburg?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Gaithersburg?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Maryland?
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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 Gaithersburg. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Gaithersburg 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