By Unitedstatess 
An ultrasound technician, also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer, typically earns a good salary due to the specialized skills required in the field. The salary for ultrasound techs can vary based on factors like experience, location, and type of employer. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Average Annual Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for ultrasound technicians in 2023 is around $77,740.
- Median hourly wage: About $37.38 per hour.
2. Salary Range by Experience
a. Entry-Level Ultrasound Technicians
- Annual Salary: Around $60,000 to $65,000.
- Entry-level techs earn less as they are just starting their careers, but this salary can grow significantly with experience.
b. Experienced Ultrasound Technicians
- Annual Salary: Experienced sonographers, especially those with specializations (e.g., obstetrics, vascular, or cardiac sonography), can earn $90,000 to $100,000+ annually.
3. Factors That Influence Pay
a. Location
Location plays a significant role in how much an ultrasound technician can make. Higher-cost-of-living areas and states with greater demand for healthcare professionals often offer higher salaries.
- Top-paying states for ultrasound technicians include:
- California: Average of $108,000 annually.
- Hawaii: Average of $101,000 annually.
- Washington, D.C.: Average of $97,000 annually.
b. Type of Employer
- Hospitals: Hospitals are one of the largest employers for ultrasound techs, and salaries here are typically higher, ranging from $75,000 to $95,000+ depending on experience and location.
- Outpatient Centers: Techs working in outpatient care centers often earn more than those in doctor’s offices, with salaries ranging from $80,000 to $100,000+.
- Private Practice/Doctor’s Offices: Salaries for ultrasound techs working in smaller offices are typically lower, ranging from $65,000 to $75,000.
c. Specialization
Specialized ultrasound techs in areas like vascular sonography, cardiac sonography (echocardiography), or pediatric sonography generally command higher salaries due to the advanced training required.
4. Certification and Education Impact
- Certified Ultrasound Technicians: Certification, especially through recognized organizations like the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), can significantly increase earning potential. Certified techs often earn 10-20% more than non-certified techs.
- Advanced Degrees: Ultrasound technicians with an associate’s degree may earn less than those with a bachelor’s degree or higher-level certifications.
Conclusion
- Average Salary: Around $77,740 annually.
- Entry-Level Techs: About $60,000 to $65,000.
- Experienced Techs: Can earn up to $100,000+, particularly with specialization and in high-demand locations.
With certifications, specialization, and years of experience, ultrasound technicians can significantly increase their earnings in this growing healthcare field.