Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Davis, CA: $174,277 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Davis, CA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $174,277/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Davis's price premium (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $154,091 in average-cost America. The 32% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, experienced ultrasound technologists in Davis, California, are projected to earn a median annual salary of $132,228. The top-tier pay for the highest earners (P90) reaches up to $174,277, showcasing significant potential for those who excel in this field. This level of compensation not only surpasses the national median of $101,352 by 30.46% but also highlights the pronounced experience premium in the local market. Achieving top-tier salary typically involves a combination of extensive practical experience, expertise in advanced imaging technologies, and the attainment of specialized credentials. Those who navigate pathways toward leadership roles or advanced specialties will find themselves in the best position to capitalize on the lucrative opportunities available in the region.
About the Davis Market
Salary estimated from California average ($124,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Davis
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Davis earn between $148,471 and $174,277 per year (2026 est.). This $80,546 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Davis median of $132,228 sits 30.46% above the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Davis | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $132,228 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,471 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $174,277 | $135,748 |
In Davis, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 31.80% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Davis
Advanced Certifications in California
CA ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $132,228 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Davis employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Davis command premium compensation, often reaching the $148,471–$174,277 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Davis metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced ultrasound technologists who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.
Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships
Long-tenured ultrasound technologists in Davis with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.
Continuing Education & Leadership
Ultrasound Technologists in California who pursue advanced degrees, mentor junior staff, or lead clinical education programs position themselves for the highest compensation tiers and management roles.
Ultrasound Technologist Career & Wage Growth Path in Davis
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedDavis ranks #143 of 157 California cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $174,277).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Davis ($174,277) is 5.98% below the California average P90 ($185,368).
2019 BLS Actual
$131,028
2025 BLS Actual
$166,089
2026 Current Est.
$174,277
2019–2027 Growth
+39.6%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Davis (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $131,028 | Actual |
| 2020 | $135,239 | Actual |
| 2021 | $130,501 | Actual |
| 2022 | $138,307 | Actual |
| 2023 | $149,309 | Actual |
| 2024 | $184,222 | Actual |
| 2025 | $166,089 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $174,277 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $182,869 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Davis saw their compensation grow 26.8% from $131,028 in 2019 to $166,089 in 2025, based on 7 years of BLS OEWS data for this metropolitan area. At a 4.93% annual growth rate, senior-level pay is projected to reach $182,869 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Davis 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.
Maximizing Your Ultrasound Technologist Earnings in Davis
Compensation for senior ultrasound technologists in Davis reflects diverse factors, especially specialization. Advanced practice areas such as cardiac sonography or vascular technology can command higher wages, attracting top talent in these niches. Differences in employer types also play a critical role; those employed in large healthcare organizations or specialty clinics often enjoy better pay and benefits than those in smaller community health centers or private practices. Senior professionals can enhance their value through advanced certifications and state licensure, which are increasingly recognized in CA's competitive market. Career advancement prospects are robust, with roles such as clinical coordinator or department director offering not only financial rewards but also opportunities for leadership. High compensation often comes with additional factors such as shift differentials and comprehensive benefits packages, making the pursuit of an experienced ultrasound technologist salary in Davis a worthy endeavor for those ready to elevate their careers.
More salary data for Davis, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Davis in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Davis?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Davis?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Davis?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Davis?
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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
Top-earner salary figures on this page are 2026 projections derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. BLS reported a 90th percentile salary of $166,089 for ultrasound technologists in the Davis metro area. A 4.93% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 senior-level compensation. Individual earnings depend on certifications, specialization, practice type, and years of clinical experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Davis 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