How Much Money Does an Ultrasound Tech Make? Complete Salary Guide

So, you're thinking about becoming an ultrasound tech or sonographer and wondering about the ultrasound technician salary ? Or perhaps you're already working in the field and just curious about the current earning potential? Well, you've come to the right place! Let's dive into the world of ultrasound tech salaries and find out how much ultrasound techs make.The average pay for ultrasound tech professionals shows why this career is in high demand. Many people wonder how much do ultrasound technicians make, and the answer depends on experience, location, and specialty. As of late 202/2026, the typical ultrasound salary or sonography salary is about $89,340 per year ($42.95 per hour). Pay is often higher in states like California, Alaska, and Washington. Sonographers who specialize—such as cardiac imaging—can become some of the highest paid sonographer professionals in the field. With more experience, earnings can reach $120,000 to $140,000 or more, and job demand continues to grow.

What Does an Ultrasound Technician Do?

First things first — an ultrasound technician, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, is a trained healthcare professional who uses specialized equipment to create images of the inside of the human body. These images help doctors diagnose, monitor, and treat various medical conditions. Think of it like using sound waves to "see" inside the body, without surgery or radiation.

Their work is crucial in many areas of medicine. Some of the most common specialties include:

Abdominal sonography to examine organs like the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder
Ultrasound Technician Salary Guide
Cardiac sonography (also known as echocardiography) for detailed heart imaging
OB/GYN sonography for fetal imaging and women’s reproductive health
Musculoskeletal or breast sonography for diagnosing soft tissue and structural issues

Each specialty may influence the technician’s job role and earning potential

In most cases, the terms “ultrasound tech” and “sonographer” refer to the same profession. Many employers prefer or even require certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This certification proves professional competency and often leads to higher salaries.

Many employers prefer certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), which often leads to higher salaries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows that demand and salaries for ultrasound techs are both growing.

Salary by Experience Level

A career as an ultrasound technician, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, offers competitive salaries that increase with experience and skill level. Understanding what skills are required to be an ultrasound technician, along with the right personality traits and soft skills, can help you maximize your earning potential.

Entry-Level Ultrasound Techs

Entry-level sonographers typically earn $65,000–$75,000 per year, depending on location and employer. At this stage, employers look for candidates with foundational ultrasound tech skills, including:

Hard skills for ultrasound technicians: operating imaging equipment, performing standard imaging procedures, and understanding anatomy and physiology.
Soft skills for ultrasound technicians: attention to detail, strong communication, and empathy when working with patients.

Mid-Level / Experienced Ultrasound Techs

With 3–5 years of experience, salaries can rise to around $80,000–$95,000 per year. Experienced sonographers are expected to have developed additional skills:

Advanced imaging techniques (cardiac, vascular, or obstetric sonography).
Ability to troubleshoot equipment and optimize imaging quality.
Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential for accurate diagnoses.
Excellent patient interaction and soft skills for ultrasound technicians, including patience, empathy, and teamwork.

Senior / Specialized Ultrasound Techs

Highly experienced or specialized ultrasound technicians can earn $100,000–$140,000+ annually, particularly in high-demand areas or specialized fields like cardiac, vascular, or neurosonography. At this level, employers value:

Mastery of multiple hard skills for ultrasound technicians and complex imaging procedures.
Leadership and mentoring skills for training junior staff.
Advanced certifications and continual education to stay current with technology.
Personal traits like reliability, adaptability, and a calm demeanor under pressure — key personality traits needed for ultrasound tech success.

Salary by State or Location

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Texas?

Ultrasound technicians in Texas earn an average of $84,900 per year. Entry-level sonographers may start at around $70,000 annually, while experienced professionals or those with specialized certifications in cardiac or vascular sonography can earn significantly more. Salaries also vary depending on the type of employer, whether it's a hospital, outpatient clinic, or private practice. Large metropolitan areas such as Houston, Dallas, and Austin typically offer higher pay and more opportunities for advancement compared to rural locations. Factors like demand for imaging services, cost of living, and the sonographer’s level of education or certification all contribute to salary differences.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Florida?

The average ultrasound tech salary in Florida is around $81,240 per year. Sonographers working in larger cities such as Miami, Tampa, Orlando, or Jacksonville generally earn more due to higher living costs and increased demand. Entry-level positions may start near $65,000 per year, whereas specialized or highly experienced professionals can earn over $100,000 annually. Hospitals and specialty imaging centers tend to offer better compensation packages, including benefits like health insurance, retirement contributions, and continuing education support.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Ohio?

In Ohio, ultrasound technicians earn approximately $80,950 per year. Entry-level sonographers may start closer to $68,000, while those with several years of experience or specialized certifications can make $95,000 or more annually. Urban areas such as Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati typically offer higher wages due to larger hospital systems and greater demand for diagnostic imaging services. Working in a hospital setting, performing specialized procedures, or holding advanced certifications can significantly increase earning potential.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Pennsylvania (PA)?

Sonographers in Pennsylvania earn about $79,660 per year. Entry-level positions may start at $65,000 per year, while highly experienced or specialized technicians can exceed $95,000 annually. Urban centers like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh generally pay more than rural areas due to higher costs of living and the presence of large healthcare systems. Factors such as additional certifications, years of experience, and the type of imaging performed (general, cardiac, or vascular) greatly impact overall salary.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in New York (NY)?

Ultrasound techs in New York earn roughly $85,970 per year. Entry-level positions may start near $70,000 annually, while experienced professionals or those in specialized roles can earn over $120,000. Salaries are generally higher in New York City and other large metropolitan areas due to the high cost of living and the significant demand for diagnostic imaging services. Hospital and specialty clinic employment typically offer the best compensation packages, along with benefits and opportunities for career advancement.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Alabama?

In Alabama, ultrasound technicians earn around $66,340 per year, making it one of the lower-paying states in the U.S. Entry-level salaries may start around $58,000 annually, while experienced or specialized sonographers can make over $80,000 per year. Urban areas such as Birmingham, Huntsville, and Mobile offer higher salaries than rural regions, and hospital employment often comes with better benefits. Factors such as demand for imaging services and access to continuing education also influence pay.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Illinois?

Sonographers in Illinois earn about $97,810 per year, one of the higher-paying states for ultrasound technicians. Entry-level salaries may start at $75,000 annually, while experienced professionals in specialized fields can exceed $120,000. Metro areas like Chicago, Naperville, and Springfield generally offer higher wages due to the presence of large hospitals and specialty clinics. Benefits and career growth opportunities are typically better in urban settings, and certifications or advanced training can further boost income.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Colorado?

In Colorado, ultrasound techs earn an average of $93,399 per year. Salaries vary by city, type of employer, and specialization. Urban areas such as Denver, Boulder, and Colorado Springs generally offer higher wages due to demand and the cost of living. Entry-level sonographers may start around $72,000, while highly experienced or specialized professionals can earn more than $115,000 annually. Hospital positions often pay more than outpatient clinics, and opportunities for career advancement are abundant in metro areas.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Michigan?

Ultrasound technicians in Michigan earn around $80,300 per year. Entry-level positions may begin at $65,000, while experienced professionals can earn over $95,000 annually. Urban centers such as Detroit, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor offer higher salaries due to demand and larger healthcare systems. Specializations in cardiac or vascular sonography, hospital employment, and advanced certifications can significantly increase earning potential, along with benefits and career development opportunities.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Oklahoma?

Sonographers in Oklahoma make roughly $80,470 per year. Entry-level salaries may start near $65,000, while experienced and specialized technicians can exceed $95,000 annually. Urban centers like Oklahoma City and Tulsa generally offer higher pay compared to rural areas. Working in hospital settings or specialty clinics usually comes with better benefits, opportunities for advancement, and a chance to earn additional income through overtime or on-call shifts.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Utah?

In Utah, the average ultrasound tech salary is around $91,140 per year. Metro areas such as Salt Lake City and Provo typically provide higher wages due to demand and cost of living. Entry-level positions may start around $70,000, while experienced or specialized sonographers can earn over $110,000 annually. Hospital and specialty clinic employment usually offers the highest compensation and benefits, while continuing education and certifications can further enhance earning potential.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Georgia?

Ultrasound techs in Georgia earn approximately $80,230 per year. Entry-level positions may begin around $68,000 annually, while experienced or specialized sonographers can exceed $95,000. Urban areas such as Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta generally offer higher pay and more career advancement opportunities. Hospital settings and specialty imaging centers typically provide better compensation packages than smaller outpatient clinics.

How much does an ultrasound tech make in Washington State?

Washington State is one of the highest-paying states for sonographers, with an average salary of around $104,000+ per year. Metro areas like Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue offer even higher wages, with specialized sonographers earning over $120,000 annually. Hospitals and specialty imaging centers typically provide the best compensation packages, along with benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education support. Rural areas may offer slightly lower salaries, but demand for skilled sonographers remains strong throughout the state.

Hourly Pay vs Annual Income

How much does an ultrasound tech make an hour?

On average, ultrasound technicians earn $42–$45 per hour. Entry-level sonographers might start closer to $35–$38 per hour, while experienced professionals, especially those with specialized certifications like cardiac or vascular sonography, can earn $50 per hour or more. Hourly pay can also vary significantly depending on the state, employer, and work setting (hospitals typically pay more than outpatient clinics).

How much does an ultrasound tech make a week?

Assuming a standard 40-hour workweek, the weekly earnings for an ultrasound tech usually fall between $1,700 and $1,800. New graduates may earn slightly less at around $1,400–$1,500 per week, whereas senior or specialized sonographers working in high-cost areas can make over $2,000 per week. Overtime, weekend shifts, and on-call duties can further increase weekly income.

How much does an ultrasound tech make a month?

Monthly pay typically ranges from $7,400 to $7,900 for average sonographers. Entry-level positions may start at $6,000–$6,500 per month, while specialized or highly experienced professionals, particularly in states like California, Alaska, or Washington, can earn $9,000–$10,500 per month. Employers sometimes offer additional bonuses or benefits that can further boost monthly income.

How much money does an ultrasound tech make a year?

The average annual salary for an ultrasound technician is around $89,000–$95,000. Entry-level sonographers may start closer to $70,000 per year, while top earners, particularly those in high-demand specialties or high-paying states, can make $120,000–$140,000+ annually. The total yearly income is influenced by factors such as experience, certifications, location, type of employer (hospital vs. clinic), and whether the sonographer takes on extra shifts or overtime. With continued demand for diagnostic imaging, salaries are expected to remain strong in the coming years.

Final Thoughts – Is It a Good-Paying Job?

Is being an ultrasound technician a good-paying job? Generally, yes! The median salary for medical sonographers and cardiovascular technologists and technicians is competitive, offering a comfortable lifestyle. The ultrasound technician salary can vary depending on factors like location, education, and certification.The job outlook is strong due to an aging population and increased use of ultrasound technology. This leads to higher salaries and more opportunities, especially in the highest-paying states for ultrasound technicians.

Specializing in areas like cardiac and vascular sonography or obtaining certification from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) can boost ultrasound tech salaries. Ultrasound technicians make more with a relevant degree in ultrasound and continuous education from allied health education programs.The median annual salary is a good reference for how much do ultrasound techs make and much do ultrasound technicians make. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, sonographers earn well, and ultrasound technician pay can vary by state and employer.

Technicians may work in various healthcare settings using ultrasound equipment to produce diagnostic images using sound waves. To become an ultrasound technician, one must complete accredited education programs and often hold a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree.With high job growth and demand, ultrasound techs earn salaries higher than the average for all occupations. The salary guide and occupational employment and wage statistics can help you understand salary expectations and pay by state.

FAQ

What is the cheapest way to become an ultrasound tech?
- Community Colleges: Community colleges often offer affordable certification programs in diagnostic medical sonography. These programs are typically shorter in duration and more affordable compared to university programs.
How fast can I be an ultrasound tech?
- The time it takes to become an ultrasound technician depends on your educational background and the path you choose. If you already have experience in the healthcare field, you can complete a certificate program in as little as 12 to 18 months. For most new students, earning an associate degree—typically a two-year program—is the most common route. Those aiming for advanced roles or specializations may opt for a four-year bachelor’s degree in diagnostic medical sonography. Regardless of the path, hands-on clinical training and certification are essential steps to enter the profession.
What is the easiest way to become an ultrasound tech?
- The easiest way to become an ultrasound technician is by enrolling in an accredited associate degree program in diagnostic medical sonography, which typically takes about two years to complete. These programs are widely available at community colleges and technical schools and do not usually require prior healthcare experience. They provide a balanced mix of classroom instruction and hands-on clinical training. After graduation, students can sit for certification exams like those offered by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS). This path is considered the most straightforward and accessible for individuals starting fresh in the healthcare field.
What is the lowest paid ultrasound tech?
- The lowest-paid ultrasound technicians are typically found in regions with lower overall wages or in entry-level positions. In the United States, Puerto Rico reports the lowest average pay for ultrasound techs, with salaries around $24,300 per year. Some states like Alabama, West Virginia, and Mississippi also have relatively low wages, ranging from $50,000 to $56,000 annually. New graduates entering the field may start at around $28 to $30 per hour, depending on the region and employer. Internationally, in countries like Bangladesh, ultrasound techs may earn as little as $3,800 per year. These variations reflect differences in cost of living, demand, and healthcare infrastructure.
Which sonography field is the best?
- The best field in sonography depends on individual interests, salary goals, and job demand, but several specialties stand out. **Cardiac sonography** and **vascular sonography** are among the highest-paying specialties, often offering advanced career opportunities in hospitals and cardiology clinics. **Obstetric and gynecologic sonography** is one of the most popular fields, especially for those interested in women’s health and prenatal care. **Abdominal sonography** offers broad diagnostic experience and versatility in job settings. Overall, cardiac sonography is often considered the best in terms of earning potential and career growth, while OB/GYN sonography is a top choice for those drawn to patient interaction and meaningful care moments.

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