Senior Ultrasound Technologist Salary in Rochester, NY: $107,847 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of ultrasound technologists working in Rochester, NY — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $107,847/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2032. Strip back Rochester's price premium (BEA RPP 97.0, 3% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $111,142 in average-cost America. The 25% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Official BLS data · View source
Rochester, NY presents a compelling opportunity for experienced ultrasound technologists seeking top compensation. In 2026, the projected median annual salary stands at $86,116, but professionals at the upper echelon can aim for remarkable earnings, with the 90th percentile reaching $107,847 and the 75th percentile offering $101,803. The significant gap between the median salary and those at the top indicates that with substantial experience and specialized skills, technologists can unlock substantial financial rewards. Achieving this elite pay level often requires advanced training, certifications, and a focus on high-demand specialties that enhance one’s marketability in a competitive landscape.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Rochester
Experienced ultrasound technologists at the top of the pay scale in Rochester earn between $101,803 and $107,847 per year (2026 est.). This $28,593 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Rochester median of $86,116 sits 15.03% below the US median.
Top Ultrasound Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Rochester | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $86,116 | $101,352 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,803 | $112,202 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $107,847 | $135,748 |
In Rochester, experienced ultrasound technologists (P90) earn 25.23% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Ultrasound Technologist Pay in Rochester
Advanced Certifications in New York
NY ultrasound technologists with additional specialty certifications within the medical imaging field earn significantly above the $86,116 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Rochester employers.
Specialty Focus
Ultrasound Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the medical imaging field in Rochester command premium compensation, often reaching the $101,803–$107,847 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Rochester 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 Rochester 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 New York 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 Rochester
Clinical Ultrasound Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Ultrasound Technologist
5-10 yearsUltrasound Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedRochester ranks #38 of 39 New York cities for top earner ultrasound technologist salary (90th percentile: $107,847).
Top 10% ultrasound technologist compensation in Rochester ($107,847) is 18.9% below the New York average P90 ($132,987).
2019 BLS Actual
$94,700
2025 BLS Actual
$102,780
2026 Current Est.
$107,847
2019–2027 Growth
+19.5%
Salary Trajectory for Ultrasound Technologists in Rochester (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 4.93% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $94,700 | Actual |
| 2020 | $95,640 | Actual |
| 2021 | $95,360 | Actual |
| 2022 | $94,800 | Actual |
| 2023 | $95,470 | Actual |
| 2024 | $98,390 | Actual |
| 2025 | $102,780 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $107,847 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $113,164 | Projected |
Top-earning ultrasound technologists (90th percentile) in Rochester saw their compensation grow 8.5% from $94,700 in 2019 to $102,780 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 $113,164 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Rochester 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 Rochester
Compensation strategies for senior ultrasound technologists in Rochester are influenced by various factors, including employer type and specialization. Technologists focusing on niche areas such as cardiovascular imaging or obstetric ultrasound may see enhanced pay prospects due to high demand for their expertise. Employment in large healthcare organizations generally offers better overall benefits and may lead to higher salaries compared to positions in smaller private practices or community health centers. Advanced roles, such as lead practitioner or clinical coordinator, can also provide avenues for professional growth and increased pay. Furthermore, holding advanced credentials beyond the basic licensure recognized by the national body can further enhance earning potential. Senior technologists should consider how aspects like shift differentials, employer benefits, and the overall size of the organization contribute to their compensation package in Rochester, NY.
More salary data for Rochester, NY:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced ultrasound technologists make in Rochester in 2026?
What drives higher ultrasound technologist pay in Rochester?
What certifications boost ultrasound technologist salary in Rochester?
Can experienced ultrasound technologists make six figures in Rochester?
How much does ultrasound technologist salary increase over time in Rochester?
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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 $102,780 for ultrasound technologists in the Rochester 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