Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Appleton, WI: $87,197 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Appleton, WI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $87,197 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Appleton's local price level (BEA RPP 92.4 — 8% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $94,350 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($106,714) within a few years of clinical practice.
Official BLS data · View source
A new graduate entering the ultrasound field in Appleton, WI can expect a starting salary of around $87,197 in 2026. This figure represents the lower range for entry-level ultrasound technologist positions and reflects the starting pay for those just beginning their careers. While this starting salary might seem modest compared to the overall median of $106,714 for the region, it offers a competitive foundation given that new grads typically experience rapid salary growth. Within the first few years, individuals can anticipate an increase as they gain experience, moving towards the 25th percentile at $90,597 and eventually reaching the median, marking an encouraging trajectory for first-time job seekers. Additionally, Appleton presents a favorable market for recent graduates, making it a viable place to launch a healthcare career.
Career Earnings Timeline in Appleton
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 Appleton
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Appleton, WI typically start between $87,197 and $90,597 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $36,274 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $106,714 — 5.29% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Wisconsin of $24,000 represents just 27.52% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($87,197/year) in Appleton. 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 Appleton
- 1Research the Appleton market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $87,197 to $90,597, 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 WI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Appleton, 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 Appleton for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Appleton's below-average 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 Appleton is $36,274 ( 41.60%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $87,197, experienced hygienists can earn up to $123,471.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$69,610
2025 BLS Actual
$83,100
2026 Current Est.
$87,197
2019–2027 Growth
+31.4%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Appleton (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $69,610 | Actual |
| 2020 | $69,560 | Actual |
| 2021 | $75,820 | Actual |
| 2022 | $81,120 | Actual |
| 2023 | $79,570 | Actual |
| 2024 | $81,580 | Actual |
| 2025 | $83,100 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $87,197 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $91,496 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Appleton, WI grew 19.4% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $69,610 in 2019 to $83,100 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $91,496. New graduates entering the Appleton job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Appleton 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 Appleton
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In Appleton, several prominent employers look to hire new ultrasound technologists, including large hospital systems and corporate group practices, which often provide structured onboarding programs designed to help recent graduates adjust to the workforce. For aspiring technologists, obtaining state licensure is essential, and pursuing optional advanced certifications can further enhance starting earnings in Wisconsin. During the first three years, it is crucial for new professionals to strategically seek opportunities that offer varied responsibilities and mentorship to boost their skill set and marketability. Compensation trends indicate that those who actively engage in continuing education and broaden their credentials will see significant salary growth in these years. Realistic expectations suggest that new graduates could see their salaries increase steadily through experience, supportive networks, and professional development, all contributing to their overall career advancement in Appleton.
More salary data for Appleton, WI:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is medical imaging school worth it in Appleton?
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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 Appleton. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS, 7-year dataset (–). Per-city data from annual BLS metropolitan area surveys.
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