Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Kaneohe, HI: $87,314 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Kaneohe, HI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $87,314 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Kaneohe's local price level (BEA RPP 119.3 — 19% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $73,189 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($120,152) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of ultrasound technology in Kaneohe, HI, the starting ultrasound technologist salary is projected at approximately $87,314 in 2026. Compared to the overall median salary for all ultrasound technologists in the city, which is estimated at $120,152, new grads can expect a significant difference. However, as they gain experience and establish their professional identities, they can reach higher earning potential, with realistic salary growth accompanying their early career stages. Transitioning from entry-level positions to more advanced roles, ultrasound technologists typically see their pay rise as they approach the median range over the first three to five years, indicating that Kaneohe presents a promising job market for newly certified professionals seeking to advance their careers.
About the Kaneohe Market
Salary estimated from Hawaii average ($104,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Kaneohe
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 Kaneohe
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Kaneohe, HI typically start between $87,314 and $100,924 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $65,943 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $120,152 — 18.55% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Hawaii of $32,000 represents just 36.65% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($87,314/year) in Kaneohe. 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 Kaneohe
- 1Research the Kaneohe market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $87,314 to $100,924, 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 HI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Kaneohe, 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 Kaneohe for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Kaneohe's above-average cost of living (index: 119.3) 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 Kaneohe is $65,943 ( 75.52%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $87,314, experienced hygienists can earn up to $153,257.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$64,746
2025 BLS Actual
$83,212
2026 Current Est.
$87,314
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Kaneohe (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $64,746 | Actual |
| 2020 | $65,998 | Actual |
| 2021 | $73,176 | Actual |
| 2022 | $75,372 | Actual |
| 2023 | $78,132 | Actual |
| 2024 | $92,484 | Actual |
| 2025 | $83,212 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $87,314 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $91,619 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Kaneohe, HI grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $64,746 in 2019 to $83,212 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $91,619. New graduates entering the Kaneohe job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Kaneohe 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 Kaneohe
In terms of employment opportunities, large hospital systems and corporate group practices in Kaneohe actively hire new graduates, often providing structured onboarding programs designed for recent entrants into the field. For aspiring technologists, obtaining state licensure is crucial, along with pursuing optional advanced certifications that are recognized nationally, as these can enhance starting pay. In the first few years, it's essential for new ultrasound technologists to be strategic about their career paths; compensation can vary greatly based on the employer type, geographic location, and the mix of credentials held. Over the first three years, individuals can realistically expect their salaries to increase as they gain skills and experience, setting the foundation for a successful and lucrative career in the healthcare field.
More salary data for Kaneohe, HI:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Kaneohe in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Kaneohe?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Kaneohe?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Kaneohe?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Hawaii?
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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 Kaneohe. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Kaneohe 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