Entry-Level Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Waynesboro, VA: $63,391 (2026)
Quick Answer:New ultrasound technologists entering the Waynesboro, VA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $63,391 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2032, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Waynesboro's local price level (BEA RPP 103.2 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $61,425 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($87,391) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Waynesboro, Virginia, the starting ultrasound technologist salary is projected at $63,391 in 2026. This figure highlights a notable gap when compared to the city’s median annual salary of $87,391. For new graduates entering the field, this means that while the starting pay may initially feel modest, there is a solid growth trajectory available. Over the first few years, new technologists can expect their earnings to advance through the lower quartile at $73,080, potentially reaching the median as they gain more experience and skills. Given the projected growth rate of 4.93% annually for the profession in this area, Waynesboro is shaping up to be a promising market for new ultrasound technologists as they start their careers.
About the Waynesboro Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Waynesboro
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 Waynesboro
Entry-level ultrasound technologists in Waynesboro, VA typically start between $63,391 and $73,080 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $50,374 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $87,391 — 13.77% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average medical imaging program cost in Virginia of $28,000 represents just 44.17% of the starting ultrasound technologist pay ($63,391/year) in Waynesboro. 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 Waynesboro
- 1Research the Waynesboro market: entry-level ultrasound technologist pay ranges from $63,391 to $73,080, 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 VA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Waynesboro, 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 Waynesboro for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Waynesboro's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Ultrasound Technologist Compensation Range
The ultrasound technologist wage spread in Waynesboro is $50,374 ( 79.47%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $63,391, experienced hygienists can earn up to $113,765.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$47,007
2025 BLS Actual
$60,413
2026 Current Est.
$63,391
2019–2027 Growth
+41.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Waynesboro (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $47,007 | Actual |
| 2020 | $47,915 | Actual |
| 2021 | $53,126 | Actual |
| 2022 | $54,721 | Actual |
| 2023 | $56,725 | Actual |
| 2024 | $60,261 | Actual |
| 2025 | $60,413 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $63,391 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $66,517 | Projected |
Entry-level ultrasound technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Waynesboro, VA grew 28.5% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $47,007 in 2019 to $60,413 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $66,517. New graduates entering the Waynesboro job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Waynesboro 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 Waynesboro
Several employers in Waynesboro actively seek to hire new graduates for ultrasound technologist roles, including large hospital systems and established corporate group practices that offer structured onboarding programs. Achieving state licensure is essential for newcomers, and pursuing optional advanced certifications can further enhance starting pay in Virginia. In the first one to three years, it is crucial to establish a clear career strategy, taking into account how compensation varies significantly across different types of employers and the geographic market. With the appropriate credentials and a commitment to continuing education, new graduates can see their earnings increase substantially within these formative years, positioning themselves effectively for long-term success in the healthcare field.
More salary data for Waynesboro, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for ultrasound technologists in Waynesboro in 2026?
How fast do ultrasound technologist salaries grow in Waynesboro?
Is medical imaging school worth it in Waynesboro?
What do new ultrasound technologists make right out of school in Waynesboro?
How do I become a ultrasound technologist in Virginia?
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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 Waynesboro. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Waynesboro 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