How Much Does An Ultrasound Tech Make?

Ultrasound technicians, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, play an essential role in healthcare by using imaging technology to help doctors diagnose various medical conditions. The profession offers a competitive salary, with compensation varying by location, specialization, and experience.

Average Salary for Ultrasound Techs in 2024

The average annual salary for ultrasound technicians in the United States is $84,470 as of 2024​(

Ultrasound Schools Info). However, salaries can range from around $68,000 to well over $100,000 depending on various factors such as experience, geographic location, and the healthcare setting.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

• Entry-Level Ultrasound Techs: Those just starting their careers typically earn between $60,000 and $70,000 per year. This figure is largely influenced by the technician’s training and any certifications obtained.
• Experienced Ultrasound Techs: Professionals with several years of experience or specialized skills, such as in cardiovascular or pediatric sonography, can expect to make $90,000 to $100,000+ per year.

Geographic Variations in Salary

The salary for ultrasound technicians can vary significantly by location:

• California: Known for offering the highest salaries in the profession, ultrasound techs in California can make around $122,670 annually​(Talent). Cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles offer competitive wages, in part due to the high cost of living.
• Hawaii: Another high-paying state, where techs can earn about $111,690 annually​(Talent).
• Lower-Paying States: In contrast, states like South Dakota and West Virginia offer lower average salaries, closer to $68,000​(Ultrasound Schools Info).

Salaries by Healthcare Setting

Ultrasound tech salaries also depend on the type of healthcare facility they work in:

• Outpatient Care Centers: These settings tend to pay the highest, with annual salaries reaching $123,020​(Talent).
• Hospitals and Clinics: Techs in hospitals earn slightly lower wages compared to outpatient centers, typically around $86,000 annually.

How to Increase Your Salary

There are several ways to maximize your earnings as an ultrasound tech:

1. Specialization: Techs who specialize in areas such as vascular, cardiac, or pediatric sonography tend to earn more. Specializations require additional certifications but can lead to salary increases of 10-20%.
2. Certifications: Obtaining certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is a key step for any ultrasound tech. Certification increases job prospects and earning potential.
3. Experience: Like many other professions, ultrasound techs with more experience tend to earn higher salaries. Senior sonographers and those who take on supervisory roles can earn six-figure salaries.

Job Outlook

The demand for ultrasound technicians is expected to grow by 10% over the next decade, which is faster than the average for all occupations​(

Ultrasound Schools Info). This growth is fueled by the increasing use of imaging technology in preventive medicine and diagnosis.

Conclusion

Ultrasound technicians can expect a rewarding career with competitive pay, particularly for those who seek out certifications and specializations. Whether you’re just starting out or already have experience in the field, ultrasound technology offers the potential for both job satisfaction and financial stability.

For further reading, check out more information at Talent.com and Ultrasound Schools Info.