Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Blacksburg, VA: $65,899 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Blacksburg, VA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $65,899 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Blacksburg's local price level (BEA RPP 103.2 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $63,856 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($91,229) 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 Blacksburg, Virginia, can expect a starting salary of approximately $65,899. This figure represents the lower end of the salary spectrum, with the median annual pay for all ultrasound technologists in the city estimated at $91,229. For early-career professionals, the salary trajectory is promising, with the potential to reach $76,407 within a few years as they gain experience and skills. Although entry-level salaries in Blacksburg may appear lower than the national median of $101,352, the local job market offers a range of opportunities that may provide a solid foundation for new grads looking to establish their careers in healthcare.
About the Blacksburg Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Blacksburg
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 Blacksburg
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Blacksburg, VA typically start between $65,899 and $76,407 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $53,114 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $91,229 — 9.99% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Virginia of $28,000 represents just 42.49% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($65,899/year) in Blacksburg. 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 Blacksburg
- 1Research the Blacksburg market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $65,899 to $76,407, 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 VA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Blacksburg, 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 Blacksburg for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Blacksburg'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 Blacksburg is $53,114 ( 80.60%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $65,899, experienced hygienists can earn up to $119,013.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$48,866
2025 BLS Actual
$62,803
2026 Current Est.
$65,899
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Blacksburg (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $48,866 | Actual |
| 2020 | $54,690 | Actual |
| 2021 | $55,228 | Actual |
| 2022 | $72,800 | Actual |
| 2023 | $77,390 | Actual |
| 2024 | $77,690 | Actual |
| 2025 | $62,803 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $65,899 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $69,148 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Blacksburg, VA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $48,866 in 2019 to $62,803 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $69,148. New graduates entering the Blacksburg job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Blacksburg 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 Blacksburg
Employers in Blacksburg that typically hire new graduate ultrasound technologists include large hospital systems and corporate group practices that offer structured onboarding programs. These organizations often provide essential support to help newcomers transition into their roles effectively. To enhance starting pay in Virginia, pursuing state licensure along with optional advanced certifications recognized by national professional bodies can be highly advantageous. Typically, during the first three years, variations in compensation are influenced by employer type and geographic market, as well as the combination of credentials held. Newly minted professionals can anticipate gradual increases in their salaries if they strategically engage in continuing education and gain valuable experience in the field.
More salary data for Blacksburg, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Blacksburg in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Blacksburg?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Blacksburg?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Blacksburg?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Virginia?
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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 Blacksburg. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Blacksburg 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