If you have been researching healthcare careers and came across ultrasound technology, you’re not alone. This field has become one of the most in-demand allied health careers in the U.S. today. One of the most searched questions among students and career changers is: “What is the ultrasound technician salary hourly in the USA?”
Let’s break it down: ultrasound techs, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, use sound waves to create images of organs and tissues inside the body. Their work supports physicians in diagnosing medical conditions, monitoring pregnancies, or evaluating internal injuries.
But beyond its clinical importance, sonography is also a career with competitive hourly pay, room for growth, and a manageable educational path. In this blog post, we will walk you through up-to-date hourly wage data, explore variations by experience and state, and share real-world stories from practicing sonographers.
Real-Life Insight: Jenna’s Journey into Sonography
Jenna, a 26-year-old from Columbus, Ohio, was working as a pharmacy technician when she decided she wanted something more specialized. “I loved healthcare, but I wanted a role that combined patient interaction with technology,” she recalls. After attending a two-year accredited sonography program and passing the ARDMS exam, she landed her first job at a small hospital.
“My starting wage was $30.50 per hour, which was amazing considering I didn’t have to go to med school,” she says. Now, with two years of experience and an added certification in vascular sonography, she’s earning over $38 an hour, working part-time, and still has time for her side photography business.
Stories like Jenna’s aren’t rare. Sonography offers real-world flexibility, high job satisfaction, and solid hourly pay.
What Is the Average Hourly Salary of an Ultrasound Technician?
The national average hourly wage for ultrasound technicians in 2025 is approximately $39.85, according to the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). However, hourly wages can vary based on a variety of factors, such as:
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Experience
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Geographic location
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Certifications held
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Type of medical facility
Let’s look at a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience Level | Hourly Wage Estimate (2025) |
|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0–2 years) | $28.00 – $32.50 |
| Mid-Level (3–5 years) | $33.00 – $42.00 |
| Senior (6–10 years+) | $42.50 – $50.00+ |
These numbers reflect full-time clinical positions, but part-time and PRN (as-needed) roles may offer even higher hourly rates due to the lack of benefits or increased flexibility.
State-by-State Comparison: Where Do Sonographers Earn the Most?
Location plays a major role in ultrasound technician salary hourly rates. States with high living costs often offer higher wages to remain competitive and attract healthcare professionals.
Here’s a snapshot of average hourly wages by state in 2025:
| State | Average Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
| California | $48.50 |
| New York | $45.20 |
| Texas | $38.10 |
| Florida | $35.90 |
| Ohio | $36.30 |
| Arizona | $37.75 |
| Washington | $44.10 |
| Illinois | $39.60 |
Highest Paying Cities for Ultrasound Techs
If you’re willing to relocate or aim for top-tier wages, consider metropolitan areas where demand and compensation are notably high:
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San Francisco, CA – $53.00/hr
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Seattle, WA – $47.75/hr
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Boston, MA – $46.50/hr
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Denver, CO – $42.90/hr
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Houston, TX – $40.25/hr
Factors That Influence Hourly Pay
While state and experience matter, other key factors impact what you’ll earn hourly as a sonographer.
1. Specializations
Sonographers who specialize in cardiac, vascular, or musculoskeletal sonography typically earn higher hourly wages. For instance:
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General sonography – $36–$40/hr
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Cardiac sonography (echocardiography) – $40–$48/hr
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Vascular sonography – $38–$46/hr
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Pediatric echocardiography – up to $50/hr
2. Certifications
Certification by the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) is a must for most employers. Additional certifications (like RVT for vascular or RDCS for cardiac) can open doors to higher-paying roles.
3. Work Setting
Different workplaces come with different hourly rates. Here’s how they typically compare:
| Setting | Typical Hourly Pay |
|---|---|
| Outpatient imaging centers | $36 – $40 |
| Public hospitals | $38 – $42 |
| Private practices | $35 – $38 |
| Travel sonography / locum positions | $45 – $60+ |
4. Overtime and On-Call Pay
Many full-time ultrasound technicians work 36–40 hours a week, but overtime and on-call shifts can significantly boost take-home pay. Overtime pay is typically 1.5x the base hourly rate, and on-call shifts may pay a flat hourly rate even when you are not called in.
Career Outlook: Job Growth and Flexibility
According to projections from the BLS, the demand for diagnostic medical sonographers is expected to grow by 10% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations.
Why? The growth is driven by:
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An aging population
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Increased use of imaging for diagnostics
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Preference for non-invasive procedures over exploratory surgery
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Expansion of outpatient care centers
Flexible Schedules & Work-Life Balance
Sonographers often have options that other medical roles don’t:
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Part-time or per diem roles
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3-day work weeks with 12-hour shifts
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Travel contracts lasting 13 weeks
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Even remote or hybrid positions in educational or teleradiology support roles
Sonography Student Voices: Is the Salary Worth the Training?
David, a student in California, shares:
“I was nervous about the investment in a two-year program. But halfway through clinical rotations, I realized how in-demand sonographers are. The hourly pay, even for new grads, is better than many 4-year degrees offer.”
Maya, now a certified OB/GYN sonographer in Boston, adds:
“What really appealed to me was the mix of job stability and decent hourly income without needing 8+ years of college. I started at $34/hr and reached $44/hr after five years. The salary helped me pay off student loans quickly.”
Getting Started: Education and Certification Path
To become a diagnostic medical sonographer and start earning competitive hourly wages, you’ll typically follow these steps:
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Complete an Accredited Program: Choose an accredited 2-year associate or 4-year bachelor’s program in diagnostic medical sonography.
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Pass Certification Exams: Most employers require certification from ARDMS, CCI, or ARRT.
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Start with Clinical Experience: Entry-level positions offer valuable experience and a stepping stone to higher hourly rates.
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Pursue Specializations: After gaining some experience, additional certifications in cardiac, vascular, or pediatric sonography can enhance earning potential.
Conclusion: Is the Ultrasound Technician Hourly Salary Right for You?
If you are looking for a stable, flexible, and high-paying healthcare job without the debt and time commitment of med school, sonography is an excellent path. With average hourly wages near $40, and the opportunity to earn $50+ with experience or specialization, it’s no surprise that sonography continues to draw attention.
Whether you’re a recent high school graduate, a career changer, or already in healthcare looking for something new, this is a field worth serious consideration.
Explore programs near you, talk to practicing sonographers, and calculate the ROI of your education. A career in sonography might just be the rewarding, financially solid move you’re searching for.
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FAQs:
How much do ultrasound technicians make per hour in the U.S.?
Ultrasound technicians in the United States earn an average of $39 to $40 per hour, depending on their location, experience, and specialty. Entry-level sonographers may start around $28 per hour, while experienced techs with certifications in cardiac or vascular imaging can earn $45 or more per hour. Urban areas and hospitals usually offer higher hourly pay than smaller clinics or rural regions.
Do ultrasound techs make more with certifications?
Yes, sonographers with specialized certifications—like cardiac (RDCS) or vascular (RVT), often earn higher hourly wages. These certifications show advanced skill and training, making you more valuable to employers. A certified vascular sonographer, for example, may earn $5–$10 more per hour than a general sonographer. Hospitals and outpatient imaging centers especially value specialized skills, and they often reward them with better pay.
Which U.S. states pay the highest hourly wage for ultrasound techs?
States like California, Washington, Massachusetts, and New York offer some of the highest hourly rates for ultrasound technicians, often ranging from $45 to $53 per hour. These states have a higher cost of living, which pushes wages up. If you are open to relocating, these regions can significantly boost your earnings especially if you’re certified and experienced.
Is being an ultrasound technician worth it financially?
Yes, many find it financially rewarding. With just 2–4 years of education, you can start a career earning $30+ per hour right out of school. Unlike other healthcare roles requiring long medical training, ultrasound techs can quickly enter the workforce and enjoy strong job stability, flexible hours, and overtime options. It’s one of the most cost-effective paths into a well-paying healthcare career.
Can part-time ultrasound techs still earn good money hourly?
Absolutely. Many part-time or per diem ultrasound techs actually earn higher hourly rates than full-time employees because they don’t receive benefits. In some regions, part-timers can earn $45 to $60 per hour, especially for weekend, night, or on-call shifts. This flexibility appeals to parents, students, or professionals who want a work-life balance without sacrificing income.
Do hospitals or private clinics pay better for ultrasound techs?
In general, hospitals and outpatient imaging centers tend to offer better pay and benefits than small private clinics. However, some specialized private practices may offer competitive hourly rates, especially in areas like OB/GYN or vascular care. If you’re looking to maximize your hourly wage, aim for larger hospitals or consider travel sonography contracts, which often pay premium hourly rates.
Disclaimer: This content is based on publicly available information and industry data. Salary estimates are approximate and may vary depending on experience, location, and job role. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, career, or legal advice.