Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Chesapeake, VA: $58,402 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Chesapeake, VA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $58,402 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Chesapeake's local price level (BEA RPP 103.2 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $56,591 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($91,253) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates looking to start their careers as ultrasound technologists in Chesapeake, Virginia, the entry-level compensation reflects both the local economy and the demand for skilled professionals in the healthcare industry. The anticipated starting ultrasound technologist salary in Chesapeake is set at approximately $58,402 in 2026, which falls notably below the city’s median salary of $91,253. This gap indicates that while initial pay may be modest, there is significant room for advancement as entry-level professionals gain experience. Over the first few years, they can realistically expect their compensation to grow as they reach the 25th percentile, projected at $76,818, and eventually approach the median salary within the first three to five years. With a positive growth trajectory in this field, Chesapeake remains a promising market for new graduates eager to launch their careers.
About the Chesapeake Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Chesapeake
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 Chesapeake
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Chesapeake, VA typically start between $58,402 and $76,818 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $72,990 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $91,253 — 9.96% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Virginia of $28,000 represents just 47.94% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($58,402/year) in Chesapeake. 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 Chesapeake
- 1Research the Chesapeake market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $58,402 to $76,818, 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 Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Chesapeake'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 Chesapeake is $72,990 ( 124.98%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $58,402, experienced hygienists can earn up to $131,392.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$43,307
2025 BLS Actual
$55,658
2026 Current Est.
$58,402
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Chesapeake (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $43,307 | Actual |
| 2020 | $44,144 | Actual |
| 2021 | $48,945 | Actual |
| 2022 | $50,414 | Actual |
| 2023 | $52,260 | Actual |
| 2024 | $57,895 | Actual |
| 2025 | $55,658 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $58,402 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $61,281 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Chesapeake, VA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $43,307 in 2019 to $55,658 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $61,281. New graduates entering the Chesapeake job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake
When considering employment opportunities, several large hospital systems and corporate group practices in Chesapeake actively recruit new ultrasound technologists. These organizations often provide structured onboarding programs that can significantly benefit recent graduates by equipping them with on-the-job training and mentorship. To enhance their market value, new technologists should also consider obtaining relevant state licensure and pursuing optional advanced certifications recognized by national professional organizations. These credentials can lead to improved starting pay and greater career mobility. In this profession, salary growth within the first one to three years can be substantial, especially for those who transition to employers with higher compensation packages or take advantage of specialized certifications. Thus, a strategic approach to entering the workforce in Chesapeake can provide a solid foundation for long-term success in the field.
More salary data for Chesapeake, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Chesapeake in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Chesapeake?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Chesapeake?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Chesapeake?
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 Chesapeake. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Chesapeake 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