verified BLS-Verified Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) May 2025 release

Ultrasound Technician Salary

Median Annual Salary
$96,590/yr
Median Hourly Wage
$46.44/hr

Salary Distribution (10th to 90th Percentile)

trending_up 10-Yr Growth
+11% Much faster than average
school Entry Education
Associate's degree
work Total Jobs (U.S.)
90,160

Estimated Pay by Experience Level

Entry-Level (10th Pct)
$67,820
$32.60/hr
Median
Mid-Level (50th Pct)
$96,590
$46.44/hr
Senior-Level (90th Pct)
$129,370
$62.20/hr

Salary by State

Median annual
StateMedian / yrRelative pay
California $128,530
Hawaii $124,430
Washington $121,340
Oregon $120,220
District of Columbia $112,020
Colorado $108,410
Massachusetts $107,480
Alaska $105,670
National Median $96,590

View all 51 states arrow_forward

The highest sticker pay isn't always where ultrasound technicians keep the most. See Ultrasound Technician pay adjusted for cost of living by state in the Real Pay Index.

How to Become a Ultrasound Technician

Ultrasound technicians, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, operate imaging equipment to create images used to diagnose and monitor medical conditions.

1

Meet the education requirement

Most ultrasound technicians enter the field with associate's degree. Programs are offered by community colleges, trade schools, and universities.

2

Complete an accredited training program

Hands-on coursework and clinical or field experience prepare you for the work and for certification exams.

3

Earn the Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (RDMS)

Most employers expect this credential — and in many states it's required to practice. Entry pay starts near $67,820 and rises toward $129,370 with experience.

Ultrasound Technician salary: common questions

How much does a Ultrasound Technician make an hour?

The median hourly wage for ultrasound technicians is $46.44, which works out to about $96,590 per year for full-time work.

Which state pays ultrasound technicians the most?

California has the highest median pay for ultrasound technicians at $128,530 per year — 33% above the national median of $96,590.

What is the salary range for ultrasound technicians?

Most ultrasound technicians earn between $67,820 and $129,370 per year. The middle 50% earn $80,430 to $106,930, with a median of $96,590.

Is becoming a Ultrasound Technician a good career?

Employment is projected to grow 11% (much faster than average), and the role typically requires associate's degree. With a median wage of $96,590 per year, it pays well above the U.S. median for all occupations.

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