Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Dearborn, MI: $62,860 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Dearborn, MI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $62,860 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Dearborn's local price level (BEA RPP 93.2 — 7% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $67,446 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($86,935) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those entering the field of ultrasound technology in Dearborn, Michigan, the starting salary for newly minted professionals generally begins at approximately $62,860 in 2026. While this entry-level figure is understandably lower than the city’s median annual salary of $86,935, it offers a clear pathway for advancement within the first few years of employment as one gains experience and possibly additional certifications. New graduates can expect realistic salary growth—from the initial $62,860 towards $71,433 after gaining some experience and skills, ultimately moving closer to the median within three to five years. Given these projections, Dearborn presents a favorable market for new graduates in this healthcare profession, especially when considering the anticipated annual growth rate of 4.93%.
About the Dearborn Market
Salary estimated from Michigan average ($78,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Dearborn
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 Dearborn
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Dearborn, MI typically start between $62,860 and $71,433 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $57,134 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $86,935 — 14.22% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Michigan of $26,000 represents just 41.36% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($62,860/year) in Dearborn. 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 Dearborn
- 1Research the Dearborn market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $62,860 to $71,433, 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 MI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Dearborn, 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 Dearborn for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Dearborn'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 Dearborn is $57,134 ( 90.89%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $62,860, experienced hygienists can earn up to $119,994.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$46,613
2025 BLS Actual
$59,907
2026 Current Est.
$62,860
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Dearborn (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $46,613 | Actual |
| 2020 | $47,514 | Actual |
| 2021 | $52,681 | Actual |
| 2022 | $54,263 | Actual |
| 2023 | $56,250 | Actual |
| 2024 | $54,444 | Actual |
| 2025 | $59,907 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $62,860 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $65,959 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Dearborn, MI grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $46,613 in 2019 to $59,907 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $65,959. New graduates entering the Dearborn job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Dearborn 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 Dearborn
In terms of employment opportunities, larger hospital systems and established corporate practices in Dearborn typically hire new graduates as ultrasound technologists, providing structured onboarding that facilitates a smoother transition into the workforce. To enhance starting pay in Michigan, obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing advanced certifications recognized regionally can further boost earning potential. During the first three years of your career, salaries will naturally vary based on the employer type, geographical market, and your credential mix. While an entry-level position may start lower, professionals can realistically anticipate growth as they establish a reputation and build expertise. Salary advancements often reflect both experience and ongoing education, allowing trajectory shifts upwards in the initial years.
More salary data for Dearborn, MI:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Dearborn in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Dearborn?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Dearborn?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Dearborn?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Michigan?
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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 Dearborn. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Dearborn 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