Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Prior Lake, MN: $68,412 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Prior Lake, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $68,412 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Prior Lake's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $69,454 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($97,708) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Newly graduated ultrasound technologists in Prior Lake, MN, can anticipate a starting pay around $68,412 in 2026. While this entry-level salary is significantly lower than the median annual salary of $97,708 for more experienced professionals in the area, it reflects a realistic entry point for new grads entering the field. Over the first few years, individuals can expect to see salary growth as they gain experience and skills; for instance, the salary can rise towards $80,233 at the 25th percentile and potentially reach the median as they establish themselves in their roles. Considering the expected growth rate of 4.93% annually, Prior Lake is positioned as a viable market for new ultrasound technologists, creating a promising pathway for career advancement.
About the Prior Lake Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Prior Lake
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 Prior Lake
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Prior Lake, MN typically start between $68,412 and $80,233 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $62,525 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $97,708 — 3.6% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Minnesota of $30,000 represents just 43.85% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($68,412/year) in Prior Lake. 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 Prior Lake
- 1Research the Prior Lake market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $68,412 to $80,233, 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 MN often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Prior Lake, 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 Prior Lake for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Prior Lake'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 Prior Lake is $62,525 ( 91.39%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $68,412, experienced hygienists can earn up to $130,937.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$50,730
2025 BLS Actual
$65,198
2026 Current Est.
$68,412
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Prior Lake (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $50,730 | Actual |
| 2020 | $51,710 | Actual |
| 2021 | $57,334 | Actual |
| 2022 | $59,055 | Actual |
| 2023 | $61,218 | Actual |
| 2024 | $61,388 | Actual |
| 2025 | $65,198 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $68,412 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $71,785 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Prior Lake, MN grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $50,730 in 2019 to $65,198 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $71,785. New graduates entering the Prior Lake job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Prior Lake 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 Prior Lake
Several employers in Prior Lake, including larger hospital systems and corporate group practices, actively seek freshly minted graduates and provide structured onboarding programs. These work environments often emphasize the importance of obtaining state licensure and encourage further certifications to enhance one’s credentials within the profession. For new technologists, establishing a clear career strategy is vital, especially given that compensation can differ based on employer type, geographical considerations, and the mix of credentials. In the first one to three years, new grads might realistically expect incremental salary increases that align with their growing skill set and the demands of the job market. By focusing on continued education and professional development, entry-level ultrasound technologists can effectively navigate their early careers and capitalize on opportunities for higher pay in MN.
More salary data for Prior Lake, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Prior Lake in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Prior Lake?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Prior Lake?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Prior Lake?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Minnesota?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in Minnesota
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 Prior Lake. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Prior Lake 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