Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Billings, MT: $121,687 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Billings, MT — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $121,687/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Billings's price premium (BEA RPP 93.5, 6% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $130,110 in average-cost America. The 8% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Official BLS data · View source
In 2026, senior ultrasound technologists in Billings, Montana can anticipate a compelling salary trajectory, with top earners in this field achieving up to $121,687 per year. This figure positions them significantly above the national top earners, reflecting local demand and specialized skills. With a median annual salary of $112,632, the disparity between this figure and the top-tier pay illustrates the potential for experienced professionals to excel financially. Achieving such salaries typically requires over seven years of experience, along with advanced certifications that signal a high level of expertise in the ever-evolving field of medical imaging. The growth rate of 4.93% suggests a continued upward trend in compensation, making Billings an attractive location for experienced ultrasound technologists evaluating their career prospects.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Billings
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Billings earn between $112,632 and $121,687 per year (2026 est.). This $37,271 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Billings median of $112,632 sits 11.13% above the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Billings | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $112,632 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,632 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $121,687 | $135,748 |
In Billings, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 8.04% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Billings
Advanced Certifications in Montana
MT ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $112,632 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Billings employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Billings command premium compensation, often reaching the $112,632–$121,687 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Billings 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 Billings 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 Montana 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 Billings
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedBillings ranks #5 of 7 Montana cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $121,687).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Billings ($121,687) is 4% below the Montana average P90 ($126,755).
2019 BLS Actual
$99,390
2025 BLS Actual
$115,970
2026 Current Est.
$121,687
2019–2027 Growth
+28.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Billings (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $99,390 | Actual |
| 2020 | $94,429 | Actual |
| 2021 | $100,990 | Actual |
| 2022 | $103,400 | Actual |
| 2023 | $106,970 | Actual |
| 2024 | $111,270 | Actual |
| 2025 | $115,970 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $121,687 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $127,687 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Billings saw their compensation grow 16.7% from $99,390 in 2019 to $115,970 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 $127,687 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Billings 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 Billings
Senior ultrasound technologists in Billings can significantly boost their earning potential by specializing in high-demand areas such as vascular ultrasound or cardiac imaging, which often command premium pay. Additionally, compensation can vary substantially based on the type of employer; those working in large healthcare organizations or specialized clinics may see higher wages compared to those in community health centers or private practices. Advancement into roles like clinical coordinator, department director, or educator not only elevates professional standing but also enhances compensation prospects. Furthermore, obtaining advanced credentials recognized by the national body, alongside state licensure, can further position technologists for competitive pay. Non-salary benefits, including shift differentials and comprehensive benefits packages, are also important considerations for senior professionals looking to maximize their overall compensation in the dynamic healthcare environment of MT.
More salary data for Billings, MT:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Billings in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Billings?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Billings?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Billings?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Billings?
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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 $115,970 for ultrasound technologists in the Billings 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
Source: BLS, OEWS, 6-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