Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in University Place, WA: $78,122 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the University Place, WA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $78,122 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out University Place's local price level (BEA RPP 107.4 — 7% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $72,739 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($110,887) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the field as ultrasound technologists in University Place, Washington, can expect a starting salary around $78,122. This figure, while relatively modest compared to the city's median salary of $110,887, presents a solid foundation for those just beginning their careers. As they gain experience over the first few years, entry-level professionals can anticipate a gradual upward trajectory, with potential salaries reaching approximately $91,326 at the 25th percentile. Given these expected growth patterns, University Place serves as a favorable market for new grads, allowing them to develop their skills in a region where demand for ultrasound services is projected to increase, reflecting an annual growth rate of 4.93%.
About the University Place Market
Salary estimated from Washington average ($112,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in University Place
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 University Place
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in University Place, WA typically start between $78,122 and $91,326 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $70,906 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $110,887 — 9.41% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Washington of $32,000 represents just 40.96% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($78,122/year) in University Place. 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 University Place
- 1Research the University Place market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $78,122 to $91,326, 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 WA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in University Place, 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 University Place for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5University Place'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 University Place is $70,906 ( 90.76%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $78,122, experienced hygienists can earn up to $149,028.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$57,930
2025 BLS Actual
$74,452
2026 Current Est.
$78,122
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in University Place (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $57,930 | Actual |
| 2020 | $59,050 | Actual |
| 2021 | $65,472 | Actual |
| 2022 | $67,437 | Actual |
| 2023 | $69,907 | Actual |
| 2024 | $85,872 | Actual |
| 2025 | $74,452 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $78,122 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $81,974 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in University Place, WA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $57,930 in 2019 to $74,452 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $81,974. New graduates entering the University Place job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the University Place 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 University Place
Hiring opportunities for entry-level ultrasound technologists in University Place are primarily found within major hospital systems and corporate practices that have structured onboarding programs designed for recent graduates. Earning a state license is essential, and pursuing advanced certifications can further enhance starting pay for new hires in Washington. Career advancement in this field typically involves gaining experience and expanding one’s credential mix, which can significantly influence compensation. During the first three years, entry-level technologists may see their pay increase steadily as they acquire necessary skills and transition from entry-level positions to more advanced roles, setting them on a path to higher salary brackets and greater job security in the dynamic healthcare market of WA.
More salary data for University Place, WA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in University Place in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in University Place?
Is medical imaging school worth it in University Place?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in University Place?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Washington?
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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 University Place. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for University Place 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