Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Chesapeake, VA: $131,392 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Chesapeake, VA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $131,392/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Chesapeake's price premium (BEA RPP 103.2, 3% above national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $127,318 in average-cost America. The 44% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Chesapeake, Virginia, senior ultrasound technologists are well-positioned to command high salaries, with top earners projected to make up to $131,392 in 2026. This represents a significant opportunity for professionals in the field, particularly those with 7 or more years of experience. Compared to the median annual salary of $91,253, the earnings at the 90th percentile underscore the potential for substantial financial rewards that come with expertise and specialization. To achieve these top-tier pay levels, ultrasound technologists typically need to gain extensive experience, develop advanced skills, and often pursue specialized certifications that distinguish them in a competitive job market, especially within the context of Chesapeake's healthcare landscape.
About the Chesapeake Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Chesapeake
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Chesapeake earn between $106,008 and $131,392 per year (2026 est.). This $72,990 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Chesapeake median of $91,253 sits 9.96% below the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Chesapeake | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $91,253 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,008 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $131,392 | $135,748 |
In Chesapeake, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 43.99% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Chesapeake
Advanced Certifications in Virginia
VA ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $91,253 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Chesapeake employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Chesapeake command premium compensation, often reaching the $106,008–$131,392 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake 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 Virginia 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 Chesapeake
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedChesapeake ranks #3 of 42 Virginia cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $131,392).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Chesapeake ($131,392) is 14.06% above the Virginia average P90 ($115,197).
2019 BLS Actual
$98,785
2025 BLS Actual
$125,219
2026 Current Est.
$131,392
2019–2027 Growth
+39.6%
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 | $98,785 | Actual |
| 2020 | $101,960 | Actual |
| 2021 | $98,388 | Actual |
| 2022 | $104,273 | Actual |
| 2023 | $112,568 | Actual |
| 2024 | $129,599 | Actual |
| 2025 | $125,219 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $131,392 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $137,870 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Chesapeake saw their compensation grow 26.8% from $98,785 in 2019 to $125,219 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 $137,870 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
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.
Maximizing Your Ultrasound Technologist Earnings in Chesapeake
For experienced ultrasound technologists in Chesapeake, compensation can vary significantly based on specializations, with areas like vascular imaging or obstetric ultrasound often attracting higher pay. Additionally, the type of employer plays a crucial role in salary differences; for instance, positions in large healthcare systems usually offer better benefits and pay compared to community health centers or private practices. Career trajectories for senior professionals can include advancements to roles such as clinical coordinator or department director, which typically come with increased responsibilities and compensation. Pursuing state licensure and relevant advanced certifications, recognized nationally, can further enhance earning potential. Beyond salary, seasoned ultrasound technologists may also benefit from non-salary factors such as shift differentials, employer size, and a comprehensive benefits provision, all contributing to a more competitive senior ultrasound technologist pay landscape in VA.
More salary data for Chesapeake, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Chesapeake in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Chesapeake?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Chesapeake?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Chesapeake?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Chesapeake?
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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 $125,219 for ultrasound technologists in the Chesapeake 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 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