How Much Do Ultrasound Techs Make? A Complete Salary Guide (2025)

Ultrasound techs hold a key position in healthcare. They use sound waves to help doctors view organs and tissues inside the body. These scans provide important clues that guide medical decisions. Doctors rely on this data to catch problems early or confirm a diagnosis.

The job needs a mix of precision and empathy. Techs must know how to operate machines, follow medical rules, and work with patients. Some patients feel nervous or unwell. A kind approach helps them stay calm. This career brings together science, care, and skill.

Average Salary of Ultrasound Techs in the U.S. (2025)

Ultrasound techs earn reliable pay across the country. In 2025, the average yearly income stands at $89,340. That equals about $43 per hour.

Some techs earn more due to their skills or location. Urban hospitals, specialized clinics, and high-demand regions often offer better pay. Others begin at lower wages but move up fast. More time on the job usually means higher income.

Many new techs see steady raises within a few years. Some increase their earnings through extra certifications. Others transfer to better-paying roles as they gain experience. The job offers clear growth opportunities and financial stability.

Entry-Level Salary

New ultrasound techs usually begin with less pay. The average starting salary is $61,000 per year.

Most beginners work in hospitals or small clinics. They learn from senior staff and grow their skills.

Mid-Level and Senior Salary Ranges

Ultrasound techs with 5 to 10 years of experience earn more. Their pay averages $80,000 to $100,000.

Techs with over a decade of experience often make $105,000 or more. Many of them lead teams or train junior techs.

Hourly Pay Overview

Hourly wages clearly show income. The average hourly rate is $43 in 2025.

Pay ranges between $30 and $60 per hour. Night shifts or emergency roles can increase these rates.

Top-Paying States

Certain states pay more due to demand or cost of living. Here are the top-paying states:

California offers the highest pay. Techs make around $122,670 per year. Big cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco offer top rates. The high cost of living also raises wages.

North Dakota follows closely. Techs earn about $118,400 per year. The state needs skilled workers in rural hospitals and clinics.

Washington offers average pay of $113,250 per year. Cities like Seattle offer many jobs in modern hospitals. Wages match the area’s higher living costs.

Oregon also pays well. The average is $112,380 per year. Cities like Portland offer great pay and strong demand.

Massachusetts rounds out the list. Techs there earn around $110,960 per year. Boston hospitals and research centers raise salaries.

These states often require more training or certifications.

States with Lower Salaries

Some states pay less, but the lower cost of living can help offset this.

Mississippi ranks among the lowest. Ultrasound techs there earn about $68,000 per year. Smaller towns and fewer high-end hospitals limit pay.

Arkansas follows closely with an average salary of $70,500 per year. Rural healthcare facilities often offer lower wages, but expenses are also modest.

West Virginia pays techs around $71,200 per year. The state has fewer large hospitals, which impacts salary levels.

South Dakota offers an average income of $72,300 per year. Techs there work mainly in small clinics and local care centers.

Alabama rounds out the group at $73,000 per year. The lower cost of housing and general living costs can balance the modest income.

These states offer a more affordable lifestyle, which helps make up for lower wages.

Salary by Workplace Setting

Work setting impacts pay. Here are the average salaries by workplace:

• Outpatient Care Centers: $123,000
• Private Diagnostic Labs: $95,000
• Hospitals: $89,000
• Physician Offices: $85,000
• Education Services: $78,000

Outpatient centers usually offer the highest salaries.

Specialized Fields and Pay

Specialties can boost your pay. These roles require extra skills and focus.

Cardiovascular sonography involves scanning the heart and blood vessels. These techs support doctors during cardiac exams and stress tests. They often earn between $95,000 and $110,000 per year. Hospitals and heart clinics need these specialists.

OB/GYN Sonography focuses on female reproductive health. These techs help track pregnancy and diagnose related issues. Their yearly income falls between $90,000 and $105,000. Women’s health centers rely on them for accurate imaging.

Abdominal sonography targets the organs inside the belly, such as the liver, kidneys, and gallbladder. These techs earn around $85,000 to $100,000 per year. General hospitals often hire them for routine scans.

Musculoskeletal sonography helps examine joints, muscles, and tendons. This field is important for injury diagnosis and rehab planning. These specialists make about $88,000 to $102,000 per year. Sports clinics and orthopedic centers value their work.

Techs who focus on these areas often handle advanced tools. They work on tougher cases and usually get better pay.

Key Salary Influencers

Several factors shape how much an ultrasound tech earns.

Experience level is one of the biggest. More years in the field usually lead to higher pay. Employers value seasoned techs who need less training and work more efficiently.

Location and cost of living also matter. Urban centers tend to offer better pay. Rural areas may offer less, but they come with lower expenses.

Certifications such as ARDMS or CCI help boost salaries. Certified techs often qualify for higher-paying roles and are seen as more skilled.

Job type changes the number,s too. Techs working in hospitals may earn less than those in private diagnostic labs or outpatient care centers.

Advanced degrees or skills make a difference. Techs who pursue extra education or master advanced equipment often get raises or promotions.

Each of these points can increase or reduce expected income.

Job Demand Outlook

The demand for ultrasound techs remains strong. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects a 10% growth through 2032.

This means more job openings, higher wages, and better job security.

Global Salary Comparison

Income varies across countries. Here’s a quick comparison:

• Canada: $70,000–$90 CAD
• U.K.: £30,000–£50,000
• Australia: $80,000–$110,000 AUD
• Saudi Arabia: 3,500–4,500 SAR/month
• Pakistan: PKR 1.8–2.3 million/year

Location plays a major role in income levels.

Extra Benefits and Perks

Ultrasound techs often receive more than just a paycheck. Most jobs include health insurance. This covers hospital visits, medical tests, and prescription costs. It gives techs peace of mind and helps them avoid large bills.

Many employers offer retirement savings plans. These plans let techs set money aside for the future. Some companies even match a portion of the savings, adding extra value.

Techs usually get paid time off and vacation days. These benefits allow rest, family time, or travel without losing income. A good balance between work and life supports long-term job satisfaction.

Some workplaces support continuing education. They help pay for classes or certifications. This allows techs to grow their skills and stay up to date with new technology.

Flexible hours are also common. Flexible work schedules let techs work part-time or choose shifts that fit their needs. This helps them manage their time better.

Some employers go further. They may offer tuition help for school or give signing bonuses when hiring new techs. These extra perks can make a big difference when choosing where to work.

How to Boost Your Earnings

You can increase your income through simple steps:

• Earn certifications in advanced specialties
• Move to states with higher pay
• Gain experience in high-demand departments
• Take on overtime or extra shifts
• Train others or step into leadership roles

These strategies often lead to faster raises and better offers.

Conclusion

Ultrasound techs enjoy strong pay, flexible work, and job security. Most earn between $61,000 and $120,000. High-demand areas and advanced skills lead to higher salaries.

The job suits those who want to work in healthcare without attending medical school. It offers stability, room for growth, and a chance to make a difference.