Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Upland, CA: $93,104 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Upland, CA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $93,104 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Upland's local price level (BEA RPP 113.1 — 13% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $82,320 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($132,130) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
With a starting ultrasound technologist salary in Upland projected at $93,104 for 2026, new graduates can expect to enter a field that offers a solid income, though it is significantly lower than the city’s median of $132,130. However, the salary range for those just beginning their careers in this profession can extend up to $179,202, presenting a favorable growth path. Early-career ultrasound technologists can anticipate incremental increases from the entry-level figure to the 25th percentile of $109,688 within a few years, suggesting a positive trend in earnings. Given these numbers, Upland presents a promising market for new graduates, as the entry-level pay stands above the national median of $101,352, signifying a competitive opportunity for those stepping into this essential healthcare role.
About the Upland Market
Salary estimated from California average ($124,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Upland
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Upland
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Upland, CA typically start between $93,104 and $109,688 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $86,098 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $132,130 — 30.37% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in California of $30,000 represents just 32.22% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($93,104/year) in Upland. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates based on accredited program data and state workforce commission reports. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution type.
Ultrasound Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Upland
- 1Research the Upland market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $93,104 to $109,688, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the medical imaging field — employers in CA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Upland, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Upland for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Upland's above-average cost of living (index: 113.1) when evaluating offers — a slightly lower salary in a nearby affordable area may provide better purchasing power.
Ultrasound Technologist Compensation Range
The ultrasound technologist wage spread in Upland is $86,098 ( 92.48%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $93,104, experienced hygienists can earn up to $179,202.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$69,040
2025 BLS Actual
$88,730
2026 Current Est.
$93,104
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Upland (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $69,040 | Actual |
| 2020 | $70,374 | Actual |
| 2021 | $78,028 | Actual |
| 2022 | $80,370 | Actual |
| 2023 | $83,314 | Actual |
| 2024 | $98,650 | Actual |
| 2025 | $88,730 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $93,104 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $97,694 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Upland, CA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $69,040 in 2019 to $88,730 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $97,694. New graduates entering the Upland job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Upland 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.
Starting Your medical imaging Career in Upland
In Upland, various healthcare employers actively seek to hire recent graduates for ultrasound technologist positions, including major hospital systems and corporate group practices. These establishments often provide structured onboarding processes that are beneficial for new entrants to the field. While entry-level pay starts around $93,104, obtaining state licensure and pursuing optional advanced certifications can significantly enhance earning potential in California's competitive market. It’s not uncommon for ultrasound technologists to see steady salary increases over the first three years, especially when leveraging professional development and additional training. New grads should remain aware that compensation can vary greatly based on the type of employer, geographic area, and the specificity of credentials, which means strategic career planning could yield considerable dividends in the longer term.
More salary data for Upland, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Upland in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Upland?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Upland?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Upland?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in California?
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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
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new medical imaging graduates. A 4.93% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Upland. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Upland 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