Healthcare careers are among the most rewarding paths for professionals who want stability, growth, and competitive salaries. One role that has been gaining a lot of attention is that of an ultrasound technician (also called a sonographer). With rising demand in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers, many people are asking: How much do ultrasound techs make in 2025?

In this guide, we’ll break down the average salaries, regional variations, career growth opportunities, and what factors influence earnings for ultrasound technicians.

Average Salary of an Ultrasound Tech

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and recent industry reports, the average annual salary for ultrasound techs in the U.S. ranges between $80,000 and $90,000 per year. That’s roughly $39–$43 per hour.

• Median salary: ~$84,000/year

• Lowest 10% earners: ~$63,000/year

• Top 10% earners: $116,000–$140,000/year

This makes ultrasound technicians some of the better-paid allied health professionals, especially compared to entry-level nursing or radiology techs.

Salary by Experience Level

Like most professions, ultrasound tech salaries increase with experience and skill:

• Entry-Level (0–2 years): $55,000–$70,000 annually

• Mid-Career (3–7 years): $75,000–$90,000 annually

• Experienced (8+ years): $95,000–$110,000+ annually

• Senior/Lead Techs or Supervisors: $120,000–$140,000 annually

Salary by State and Location

Where you work plays a big role in your pay. High-cost-of-living states generally pay more:

• California: $110,000–$115,000

• Hawaii, Washington, Massachusetts: $95,000–$105,000

• Texas & Florida: $75,000–$90,000

• Alabama & Mississippi: $60,000–$70,000

Urban hospitals also pay more than rural clinics due to demand and patient load.

Hourly Pay for Ultrasound Techs

Many ultrasound techs are paid hourly. On average, the pay rate ranges from $30 to $55 per hour, depending on state, experience, and specialization. Travel ultrasound techs can make even more due to housing stipends and bonuses.

Specializations That Increase Pay

Certain areas of specialization in sonography can significantly boost income:

• Cardiac Sonography – Focuses on the heart; high demand, often $95K+ annually.

• Vascular Sonography – Specializing in blood vessels, salaries often exceed $90K.

• OB/GYN Sonography – Working with women’s health, pays $85K–$100K.

• Pediatric Sonography – Niche expertise, often commanding higher pay.

Having certifications in multiple specialties can put an ultrasound tech in the top 10% salary bracket.

Factors That Influence Ultrasound Tech Salaries

Several key factors determine how much you’ll earn:

1. Education Level – An associate’s degree is enough for entry-level, but a bachelor’s can increase earning potential.

2. Certifications – Credentials from ARDMS, ARRT, or CCI can boost salaries by 10–20%.

3. Work Setting – Hospitals and specialty clinics usually pay more than outpatient centers.

4. Shifts and Overtime – Night or weekend shifts often come with extra pay.

5. Travel Assignments – Short-term travel jobs may push annual earnings above $120K.

Job Outlook for Ultrasound Techs

The demand for ultrasound techs is expected to grow by 10–15% in the next decade, much faster than average. This is due to:

• Increased reliance on non-invasive imaging.

• An aging population requiring diagnostic care.

• Expanding healthcare facilities nationwide.

With solid pay and strong growth, ultrasound technology is one of the most stable career paths in healthcare.

Conclusion

So, how much do ultrasound techs make? On average, between $80K and $90K annually, with opportunities to surpass $100K+ through specialization, certifications, and location advantages. Whether you’re just entering the field or considering advanced roles, this career offers excellent earning potential and job security.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ultrasound Tech Salaries

1. How much do ultrasound techs make starting out?

Entry-level ultrasound technicians typically earn between $55,000 and $70,000 per year. This varies depending on the state, work setting, and certifications.

2. Can ultrasound techs make six figures?

Yes, experienced ultrasound techs, especially those with advanced certifications or working in specialized fields like cardiac or vascular sonography, can earn $100,000 to $140,000+ annually.

3. What state pays ultrasound techs the most?

California consistently ranks as the top-paying state, with salaries often ranging between $110,000 and $115,000. Other high-paying states include Hawaii, Massachusetts, and Washington.

4. How much do ultrasound techs make per hour?

On average, ultrasound technicians earn $30 to $55 per hour. Travel ultrasound techs may earn even more due to stipends and bonuses.

5. Do ultrasound techs get paid more with certifications?

Absolutely. Certifications from organizations like ARDMS or ARRT can significantly boost earnings, often by 10–20% more than non-certified techs.

6. Is being an ultrasound tech a good career?

Yes, it’s considered one of the best-paying allied health careers. With salaries averaging $80K–90K, job stability, and projected growth of 10–15% in the next decade, it offers both financial and professional rewards.

7. Do ultrasound techs make more in hospitals or clinics?

Generally, hospitals and specialized medical centers pay more than outpatient clinics or private practices due to higher demand and complexity of cases.

8. How much do travel ultrasound techs make?

Travel ultrasound techs can earn $100,000 or more per year, thanks to higher hourly rates, overtime opportunities, and additional perks like housing allowances.

9. Do ultrasound tech salaries increase over time?

Yes. Salaries typically grow with experience, specialization, and seniority. An entry-level ultrasound tech may start around $60K, but with 8–10 years of experience and advanced certifications, salaries can easily exceed $100K annually.

10. What benefits do ultrasound techs usually receive?

Alongside competitive salaries, most ultrasound techs receive health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, continuing education support, and overtime pay. Travel techs often receive housing stipends and travel reimbursements.

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