Ultrasound technician, also called diagnostic medical sonographer. They contribute in healthcare with the use of imaging technology to screen for pregnancies and diagnose illnesses. Sonographers use specialized equipment to create images and carry out various examinations. It’s wise to have a clear idea of your expected income before pursuing this professional route. This blog provides comprehensive information about ultrasound tech salary in the United States, taking into account state-by-state comparisons, future employment prospects, and factors that affect salaries.
How Much Do Ultrasound Techs Make
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary for ultrasound technicians is 82,570/year (about 39.70 per hour) as of 2024. However, earnings depend on experience, area, and forte.
Source: BLS
Link: https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/diagnostic-medical-sonographers.htm
Ultrasound Tech Salary Range
- Entry Level (0-2 years experience): 60,000–60,000–70,000
- Mid Career (3-7 years): 75,000–75,000–90,000
- Experienced (8+ years): 90,000–90,000–110,000+
- Top 10% of Earners: $107,000+
Pay Differences by Specialty
Not all sonographers earn the same. Some area of specialization tend to get higher salaries due to demand and essential proficiency:
- Cardiac Sonographer (Echocardiography): 90,000–110,000
- Vascular Sonographer: 85,000–100,000
- Ob/Gyn Sonographer: 80,000–95,000
- Abdominal Sonographer: 75,000–90,000
Certifications (like ARDMS credentials) often helps in getting higher salary.
Ultrasound Techs Salary In Different States
Region has huge affect on Ultrasound tech salary. States with bigger living cost or big demand for healthcare technicians usually pay more.
Highest Paying States
These states pay more to ultrasound technicians as demand is high.
- California: $107,340
- Washington: $96,870
- Oregon: $95,620
- Massachusetts: $94,840
- Alaska: $93,960
Lowest Paying States
These are the lowest paying states.
- Mississippi: $62,250
- Alabama: $64,890
- Arkansas: $65,210
- West Virginia: $66,540
- Kentucky: $68,320
If you want to earn more then moving to higher paying states is better idea
Factors Impacting Ultrasound Tech Salary
Many factors affects salary of a sonographer.
1. Experience
- New comers start earning around 60,000–70,000, but salaries increase quite rapidly with experience.
- Technicians with 10+ years often make 90,000–110,000+.
2. Work Setting
- Hospitals: 85K–95K (most common employer)
- Outpatient Clinics: 90K–105K (often higher pay than hospitals)
- Physician Offices: 75K–85K
- Travel Sonographers: $100K+ (higher pay but requires flexibility)
3. Certifications & Education
- ARDMS certification (required in many states) increase earnings by 10–15%.
- Bachelor’s degree (vs. an Associate’s) can increase salary potential.
Future of Work: Is Sonography a Good Career?
The BLS predicts 11% job growth for ultrasound techs from 2023–2033—much faster than average. This demand comes from:
- Older people needing more diagnostic tests.
- Growth in ultrasound tech, vast medical uses.
- Hospitals, clinics, and healthcare facilities recruiting more sonographers to tend to patient needs.
This means job security and opportunities for development and growth in this field.
How to Earn More as an Ultrasound Tech
If you want to expand your salary, consider these steps:
- Get certified [ARDMS (American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography), CCI (Cardiovascular Credentialing International), or ARRT].
- Specialty Exams (cardiac, vascular, or pediatric sonography pays more).
- Work in high-demand areas (hospitals, specialty clinics, travel sonographers).
- Move to higher-paying states (California, Washington, Massachusetts).
- Gain experience and ask for raises.
Final Thoughts
Sonography is a stable, good paying career with space to grow. While the median salary is around 84K,top earners make100K+, especially in high-demand specialties and states.
If you’re detail-oriented, enjoy working with patients, and want a healthcare career without needing a medical degree, sonography could be a great fit—both financially and professionally.
Thinking about becoming an ultrasound tech? Research programs in your area and consider which specialty interests you most.