Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Des Moines, WA: $146,197 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Des Moines, WA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $146,197/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Des Moines's price premium (BEA RPP 107.4, 7% above national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $136,124 in average-cost America. The 31% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For seasoned ultrasound technologists in Des Moines, Washington, the compensation landscape reveals significant earning potential, particularly for those in the upper echelons of the profession. Projections for 2026 indicate that top earners may reach a remarkable $146,197 annually, with the 75th percentile still commanding a respectable $123,030. This is substantial in comparison to the median salary of $112,027. The experience premium in this market is evident, as professionals with over seven years in the field can strategically position themselves to exceed the typical pay scale. Achieving this elevated compensation requires not only extensive experience but also expertise in specialized areas and a solid performance in healthcare settings that tend to prioritize advanced skill sets.
About the Des Moines Market
Salary estimated from Washington average ($112,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Des Moines
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Des Moines earn between $123,030 and $146,197 per year (2026 est.). This $65,822 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Des Moines median of $112,027 sits 10.53% above the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Des Moines | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $112,027 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $123,030 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $146,197 | $135,748 |
In Des Moines, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 30.50% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Des Moines
Advanced Certifications in Washington
WA ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $112,027 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Des Moines employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Des Moines command premium compensation, often reaching the $123,030–$146,197 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Washington 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 Des Moines
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedDes Moines ranks #26 of 50 Washington cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $146,197).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Des Moines ($146,197) is 7.85% below the Washington average P90 ($158,649).
2019 BLS Actual
$109,916
2025 BLS Actual
$139,328
2026 Current Est.
$146,197
2019–2027 Growth
+39.6%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Des Moines (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $109,916 | Actual |
| 2020 | $113,448 | Actual |
| 2021 | $109,474 | Actual |
| 2022 | $116,022 | Actual |
| 2023 | $125,252 | Actual |
| 2024 | $160,068 | Actual |
| 2025 | $139,328 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $146,197 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $153,404 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Des Moines saw their compensation grow 26.8% from $109,916 in 2019 to $139,328 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 $153,404 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Des Moines 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 Des Moines
Compensation for senior ultrasound technologists varies significantly based on several key factors in Des Moines. Specializations such as vascular sonography, cardiac ultrasound, and obstetric and gynecological sonography can lead to higher pay levels, making them worthy pursuits for those looking to maximize their earnings. Moreover, the type of employing organization plays a critical role—private practices may offer different benefits compared to larger healthcare systems or community health centers. Advancement opportunities, such as moving into lead technician roles or clinical coordination positions, can further enhance income potential. Holding advanced credentials and state licensure in Washington also provides an edge in the competitive market, as well as the possibility for non-salary benefits like shift differentials. These elements combine to create a comprehensive compensation strategy, reflecting the investment that senior ultrasound technologists make in their careers.
More salary data for Des Moines, WA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Des Moines in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Des Moines?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Des Moines?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Des Moines?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Des Moines?
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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 $139,328 for ultrasound technologists in the Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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