Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Hillsboro, OR: $94,741 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Hillsboro, OR job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $94,741 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Hillsboro's local price level (BEA RPP 102.6 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $92,340 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($137,818) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the field of ultrasound technology in Hillsboro, Oregon, can expect a starting ultrasound technologist salary that begins at around $94,741. While this initial pay may appear modest when compared to the city’s median annual salary of $137,818, it’s essential for new grads to understand that this base figure represents a strong foundation for growth. Within the first few years on the job, salaries often rise towards the 25th percentile, estimated at $112,615, reflecting the upward trajectory that many can achieve as they build experience and proficiency. Given the projected growth rate of 4.93%, Hillsboro offers a promising market for entry-level professionals eager to advance their careers in ultrasound technology.
About the Hillsboro Market
Salary estimated from Oregon average ($106,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Hillsboro
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 Hillsboro
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Hillsboro, OR typically start between $94,741 and $112,615 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $89,279 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $137,818 — 35.98% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Oregon of $30,000 represents just 31.67% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($94,741/year) in Hillsboro. 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 Hillsboro
- 1Research the Hillsboro market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $94,741 to $112,615, 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 OR often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Hillsboro, 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 Hillsboro for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Hillsboro'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 Hillsboro is $89,279 ( 94.23%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $94,741, experienced hygienists can earn up to $184,020.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$70,254
2025 BLS Actual
$90,290
2026 Current Est.
$94,741
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Hillsboro (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $70,254 | Actual |
| 2020 | $71,612 | Actual |
| 2021 | $79,400 | Actual |
| 2022 | $81,783 | Actual |
| 2023 | $84,778 | Actual |
| 2024 | $79,732 | Actual |
| 2025 | $90,290 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $94,741 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $99,412 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Hillsboro, OR grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $70,254 in 2019 to $90,290 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $99,412. New graduates entering the Hillsboro job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Hillsboro 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 Hillsboro
With notable employers in Hillsboro including large hospital systems and corporate group practices, new ultrasound technologists often benefit from structured onboarding programs that assist in making a smooth transition from academic training to professional practice. Maintaining state licensure is crucial; additionally, pursuing optional advanced certifications recognized nationally can significantly enhance starting pay and job prospects. In the first three years of practice, it’s realistic for a new graduate to see salary increases that can bridge the gap between entry-level and median earnings, particularly if they are willing to seek out diverse opportunities and continue their professional education. This strategic approach is vital in a market where compensation varies based on employer type, geographic location, and overall credential mix, ensuring that new ultrasound technologists in Hillsboro maximize their earning potential over time.
More salary data for Hillsboro, OR:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Hillsboro in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Hillsboro?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Hillsboro?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Hillsboro?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Oregon?
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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 Hillsboro. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Hillsboro 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