Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Chelmsford, MA: $76,472 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Chelmsford, MA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $76,472 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Chelmsford's local price level (BEA RPP 108.5 — 9% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $70,481 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($104,530) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the ultrasound technologist field in Chelmsford, Massachusetts, can expect a starting salary around $76,472, which reflects the lower end of the pay scale. This initial compensation is significantly below the city’s median annual salary of $104,530, resulting in a notable gap that early-career professionals may want to consider as they negotiate their first positions. However, optimism exists regarding potential earnings growth, as entry-level salaries can escalate to approximately $88,505 within the first few years, and upward towards the overall median as experience accumulates. Given the projected growth rate of 4.93% in the field, Chelmsford offers a viable market for newly minted ultrasound technologists, particularly for those eager to start their careers with the right preparations and expectations.
About the Chelmsford Market
Salary estimated from Massachusetts average ($104,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Chelmsford
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 Chelmsford
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Chelmsford, MA typically start between $76,472 and $88,505 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $61,677 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $104,530 — 3.14% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Massachusetts of $42,000 represents just 54.92% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($76,472/year) in Chelmsford. 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 Chelmsford
- 1Research the Chelmsford market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $76,472 to $88,505, 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 Chelmsford, 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 Chelmsford for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Chelmsford'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 Chelmsford is $61,677 ( 80.65%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $76,472, experienced hygienists can earn up to $138,149.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$56,706
2025 BLS Actual
$72,879
2026 Current Est.
$76,472
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Chelmsford (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $56,706 | Actual |
| 2020 | $57,802 | Actual |
| 2021 | $64,089 | Actual |
| 2022 | $66,012 | Actual |
| 2023 | $68,430 | Actual |
| 2024 | $80,983 | Actual |
| 2025 | $72,879 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $76,472 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $80,242 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Chelmsford, MA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $56,706 in 2019 to $72,879 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $80,242. New graduates entering the Chelmsford job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford
In Chelmsford, large hospital systems and corporate healthcare practices routinely hire entry-level ultrasound technologists. These employers often provide structured onboarding programs that can help new graduates transition smoothly from education to practical work. Holding state licensure in MA is essential, but pursuing optional advanced certifications recognized by the national body can further enhance earning potential. For new grads, the first one to three years in the field can be pivotal for career development, as compensation significantly varies based on the type of employer, geographic area, and additional credentials. As professionals gain experience and potentially move through the tiers from entry-level roles to more advanced positions, realistic pay increases can range from modest jumps in initial salaries to more substantial gains as they achieve certifications and further their expertise. This progression sets the foundation for a successful and potentially lucrative career in ultrasound technology in Chelmsford, MA.
More salary data for Chelmsford, MA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Chelmsford in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Chelmsford?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Chelmsford?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Chelmsford?
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 Chelmsford. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Chelmsford 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