Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Amherst, MA: $75,390 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Amherst, MA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $75,390 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Amherst's local price level (BEA RPP 108.5 — 9% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $69,484 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($108,968) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, a new graduate entering the field of ultrasound technology in Amherst, Massachusetts, can anticipate a starting ultrasound technologist salary around $75,390, with the potential to grow as they gain experience. This entry-level salary position is quite competitive when one considers that the median annual salary for ultrasound technologists in Amherst is projected to be $108,968, revealing a gap that new graduates can strive to close over time. As they progress through their early years, professionals typically see a trajectory that could lift them to the 25th percentile, which stands at $95,364. Given the modest size of the job market in this region, with only a handful of ultrasound technologists currently employed, those starting their careers now may find opportunities to thrive and improve their earning potential within just a few years.
About the Amherst Market
Salary estimated from Massachusetts average ($104,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Amherst
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 Amherst
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Amherst, MA typically start between $75,390 and $95,364 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $62,992 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $108,968 — 7.51% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Massachusetts of $42,000 represents just 55.71% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($75,390/year) in Amherst. 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 Amherst
- 1Research the Amherst market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $75,390 to $95,364, 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 MA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Amherst, 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 Amherst for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Amherst'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 Amherst is $62,992 ( 83.55%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $75,390, experienced hygienists can earn up to $138,382.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$55,904
2025 BLS Actual
$71,848
2026 Current Est.
$75,390
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Amherst (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $55,904 | Actual |
| 2020 | $56,985 | Actual |
| 2021 | $63,182 | Actual |
| 2022 | $65,078 | Actual |
| 2023 | $67,462 | Actual |
| 2024 | $79,980 | Actual |
| 2025 | $71,848 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $75,390 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $79,107 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Amherst, MA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $55,904 in 2019 to $71,848 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $79,107. New graduates entering the Amherst job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Amherst 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 Amherst
Amherst's healthcare landscape includes several large hospital systems and corporate group practices that actively recruit new graduates, offering structured onboarding processes that help to bridge the transition from school to full-fledged employment. Earning the necessary credentials, such as state licensure and optional advanced certifications recognized nationally, can significantly impact a new grad's starting pay in MA. During the first few years, it's crucial to be strategic; annual compensation can vary widely based on employer type and geographic market dynamics. While some may start at the lower end of the pay scale, it's reasonable to expect gradual improvements in compensation—typically reflecting the growth opportunities fostered within supportive workplaces. New ultrasound technologists should anticipate a steady rise in their earnings over the first three years as they acquire skills and gain experience, thus enhancing their value in an ever-evolving healthcare industry.
More salary data for Amherst, MA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Amherst in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Amherst?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Amherst?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Amherst?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Massachusetts?
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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 Amherst. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Amherst 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