Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Richmond, VA: $108,088 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Richmond, VA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $108,088/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Richmond's price premium (BEA RPP 97.9, 2% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $110,454 in average-cost America. The 8% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Official BLS data · View source
Senior ultrasound technologists in Richmond, Virginia, have the potential to earn top-tier salaries, with estimates for 2026 projecting an annual pay of up to $108,088 at the 90th percentile. This figure represents a substantial income that exceeds the city’s median annual salary of $100,376, emphasizing the importance of experience in this field. Achieving such high earning potential typically requires not only extensive hands-on experience, typically seven years or more, but also mastery of advanced imaging techniques and a focus on specialized areas such as cardiac or vascular sonography. Professionals seeking to elevate their pay to upper echelons should also consider certifications that enhance their credibility and skills, positioning them favorably in a competitive market.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Richmond
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Richmond earn between $103,870 and $108,088 per year (2026 est.). This $24,417 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Richmond median of $100,376 sits 0.96% below the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Richmond | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $100,376 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,870 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $108,088 | $135,748 |
In Richmond, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 7.68% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Richmond
Advanced Certifications in Virginia
VA ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $100,376 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Richmond employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Richmond command premium compensation, often reaching the $103,870–$108,088 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Richmond 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 Richmond with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this competitive 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 Richmond
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedRichmond ranks #35 of 42 Virginia cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $108,088).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Richmond ($108,088) is 6.17% below the Virginia average P90 ($115,197).
2019 BLS Actual
$96,190
2025 BLS Actual
$103,010
2026 Current Est.
$108,088
2019–2027 Growth
+17.9%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Richmond (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $96,190 | Actual |
| 2020 | $100,850 | Actual |
| 2021 | $98,680 | Actual |
| 2022 | $98,860 | Actual |
| 2023 | $102,710 | Actual |
| 2024 | $99,440 | Actual |
| 2025 | $103,010 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $108,088 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $113,417 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Richmond saw their compensation grow 7.1% from $96,190 in 2019 to $103,010 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 $113,417 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Richmond 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 Richmond
Compensation for senior ultrasound technologists in Richmond varies significantly based on employer type and area of specialization. Private practices and specialty clinics often provide higher compensation compared to community health centers, reflecting the demand and complexity of services offered. Advanced certifications recognized by national accrediting bodies can enable technologists to command higher salaries. Additional roles, such as clinical coordinators or department directors, can further enhance one’s earning power while also offering avenues for leadership and professional growth. Non-salary compensation factors, including shift differentials and comprehensive benefits packages, can also influence overall pay, making certain positions more attractive in the rich tapestry of healthcare roles within Virginia.
More salary data for Richmond, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Richmond in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Richmond?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Richmond?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Richmond?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Richmond?
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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 $103,010 for ultrasound technologists in the Richmond 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, 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