If you are planning a career in sonography, one of the most important questions is how much sonographers make in each state. Sonographer salaries can vary significantly depending on where you work, the type of healthcare facility you choose, your experience, and your specialty.
A diagnostic medical sonographer uses ultrasound equipment to create images of structures inside the body. Sonographers may work in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, physicians’ offices, diagnostic laboratories, and specialty healthcare facilities.
The latest national data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show a median annual wage of $89,340 for diagnostic medical sonographers, with a median hourly equivalent of approximately $42.95. The lowest 10% earned less than $64,760, while the highest 10% earned more than $123,170.
However, the national number does not tell the whole story. Sonographer salary by state can differ by tens of thousands of dollars. For example, May 2024 state data show median annual wages ranging from about $66,340 in Alabama to $122,030 in Hawaii.
Because official 2027 salary statistics are not available yet, this guide uses the latest available state wage data as the baseline and explains what sonographers may reasonably consider when planning for 2027.
Sonographer Salary by State in 2027
The table below provides the latest state-level benchmark available for diagnostic medical sonographers. The 2024 median salary is the reported wage benchmark, while the 2027 estimated range is a planning estimate rather than an official government forecast.
The estimates are intended to show how current state pay levels could translate into 2027 career planning.
| State | 2024 Median Salary | 2024 Mean Salary | Estimated 2027 Pay Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $66,340 | $66,820 | $69,000–$76,000 |
| Alaska | $103,160 | $94,410 | $98,000–$110,000 |
| Arizona | $101,100 | $99,370 | $102,000–$114,000 |
| Arkansas | $78,500 | $77,820 | $81,000–$90,000 |
| California | $120,840 | $118,950 | $123,000–$138,000+ |
| Colorado | $104,810 | $102,870 | $106,000–$119,000 |
| Connecticut | $102,850 | $101,570 | $104,000–$117,000 |
| Delaware | $87,840 | $93,360 | $91,000–$105,000 |
| District of Columbia | $106,130 | $105,210 | $108,000–$120,000 |
| Florida | $81,240 | $82,590 | $84,000–$94,000 |
| Georgia | $80,230 | $79,940 | $83,000–$92,000 |
| Hawaii | $122,030 | $116,050 | $125,000–$140,000+ |
| Idaho | $97,480 | $91,690 | $100,000–$110,000 |
| Illinois | $97,810 | $94,850 | $100,000–$110,000 |
| Indiana | $84,410 | $85,000 | $87,000–$96,000 |
| Iowa | $83,890 | $84,540 | $87,000–$96,000 |
| Kansas | $88,170 | $89,010 | $91,000–$101,000 |
| Kentucky | $80,320 | $78,610 | $83,000–$92,000 |
| Louisiana | $76,400 | $73,390 | $79,000–$87,000 |
| Maine | $85,790 | $86,140 | $88,000–$98,000 |
| Maryland | $95,120 | $92,610 | $98,000–$108,000 |
| Massachusetts | $104,130 | $107,690 | $108,000–$121,000 |
| Michigan | $80,300 | $78,660 | $83,000–$92,000 |
| Minnesota | $101,100 | $99,110 | $104,000–$114,000 |
| Mississippi | $73,440 | $71,850 | $76,000–$84,000 |
| Missouri | $91,440 | $91,070 | $94,000–$104,000 |
| Montana | $97,000 | $94,650 | $100,000–$110,000 |
| Nebraska | $79,250 | $82,920 | $82,000–$92,000 |
| Nevada | $94,370 | $94,210 | $97,000–$107,000 |
| New Hampshire | $100,110 | $101,930 | $103,000–$114,000 |
| New Jersey | $99,940 | $101,140 | $103,000–$115,000 |
| New Mexico | $84,150 | $83,760 | $87,000–$96,000 |
| New York | $101,930 | $100,210 | $105,000–$117,000 |
| North Carolina | $83,480 | $84,690 | $86,000–$96,000 |
| North Dakota | $83,860 | $86,030 | $87,000–$97,000 |
| Ohio | $80,950 | $81,960 | $84,000–$93,000 |
| Oklahoma | $80,470 | $80,270 | $83,000–$92,000 |
| Oregon | $108,230 | $105,320 | $111,000–$124,000 |
| Pennsylvania | $79,660 | $81,860 | $83,000–$93,000 |
| Rhode Island | $99,650 | $98,540 | $102,000–$113,000 |
| South Carolina | $80,490 | $80,030 | $83,000–$92,000 |
| South Dakota | $74,880 | $71,360 | $77,000–$85,000 |
| Tennessee | $79,480 | $76,750 | $82,000–$91,000 |
| Texas | $84,900 | $85,030 | $87,000–$98,000 |
| Utah | $91,140 | $92,860 | $94,000–$104,000 |
| Vermont | $101,630 | $97,930 | $104,000–$114,000 |
| Virginia | $89,430 | $89,540 | $92,000–$102,000 |
| Washington | $107,360 | $106,080 | $110,000–$123,000 |
| West Virginia | $73,410 | $74,670 | $76,000–$85,000 |
| Wisconsin | $100,730 | $100,290 | $103,000–$114,000 |
| Wyoming | $95,650 | $92,260 | $98,000–$108,000 |
The 2024 median and mean figures above come from May 2024 state-level OEWS data compiled for diagnostic medical sonographers.
Which State Pays Sonographers the Most?
The highest-paying states can be especially attractive to experienced sonographers, although salary should always be compared with the local cost of living.
Based on May 2024 median wage data, the strongest-paying locations included Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Massachusetts, Alaska, Connecticut, New York, and Vermont.
Top-Paying States for Sonographers
| Rank | State | 2024 Median Salary | Approx. Hourly Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | $122,030 | $58.67 |
| 2 | California | $120,840 | $58.10 |
| 3 | Oregon | $108,230 | $52.03 |
| 4 | Washington | $107,360 | $51.62 |
| 5 | District of Columbia | $106,130 | $51.02 |
| 6 | Colorado | $104,810 | $50.39 |
| 7 | Massachusetts | $104,130 | $50.06 |
| 8 | Alaska | $103,160 | $49.60 |
| 9 | Connecticut | $102,850 | $49.45 |
| 10 | New York | $101,930 | $49.00 |
Hourly figures are annual salary equivalents based on 2,080 working hours per year.
The important point is that a high salary does not automatically mean a better financial outcome. Housing, transportation, taxes, insurance, and everyday expenses can substantially change the value of a salary.
Which States Pay Sonographers the Least?
Some states have lower median wages for diagnostic medical sonographers.
The lower end of the May 2024 state wage distribution included Alabama, South Dakota, Mississippi, West Virginia, Louisiana, Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Michigan, and Georgia.
| State | 2024 Median Salary | Approx. Hourly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | $66,340 | $31.89 |
| South Dakota | $74,880 | $36.00 |
| West Virginia | $73,410 | $35.29 |
| Mississippi | $73,440 | $35.31 |
| Louisiana | $76,400 | $36.73 |
| Tennessee | $79,480 | $38.21 |
| Arkansas | $78,500 | $37.74 |
| Kentucky | $80,320 | $38.62 |
| Michigan | $80,300 | $38.61 |
| Georgia | $80,230 | $38.57 |
A lower statewide median does not mean every job in that state pays poorly. Major hospitals, specialty centers, metropolitan areas, and experienced professionals can earn considerably more than the statewide median.
How Much Do Sonographers Make by State Per Hour?
Hourly compensation makes it easier to compare job offers.
For example, the national median of $89,340 is equivalent to about $42.95 per hour.
The state differences can be substantial.
Hourly Sonographer Salary Examples
| State | 2024 Median Annual Pay | Approx. Hourly Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $122,030 | $58.67 |
| California | $120,840 | $58.10 |
| Oregon | $108,230 | $52.03 |
| Washington | $107,360 | $51.62 |
| Colorado | $104,810 | $50.39 |
| Massachusetts | $104,130 | $50.06 |
| New York | $101,930 | $49.00 |
| Texas | $84,900 | $40.82 |
| Florida | $81,240 | $39.06 |
| Georgia | $80,230 | $38.57 |
| Michigan | $80,300 | $38.61 |
| Alabama | $66,340 | $31.89 |
These hourly figures are mathematical conversions of annual median wages and are not separate hourly survey figures.
How Much Do Sonographers Make a Month by State?
Monthly gross pay can make state salary differences easier to understand.
The following examples use the 2024 median annual wage for each state divided by 12.
| State | Annual Median | Monthly Gross Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaii | $122,030 | $10,169 |
| California | $120,840 | $10,070 |
| Oregon | $108,230 | $9,019 |
| Washington | $107,360 | $8,947 |
| Colorado | $104,810 | $8,734 |
| Massachusetts | $104,130 | $8,678 |
| New York | $101,930 | $8,494 |
| Texas | $84,900 | $7,075 |
| Florida | $81,240 | $6,770 |
| Georgia | $80,230 | $6,686 |
| Alabama | $66,340 | $5,528 |
These are gross monthly equivalents before federal taxes, state taxes, insurance, retirement contributions, and other deductions.
Why Does Sonographer Salary Vary by State?
There is no single reason that one state pays sonographers more than another.
Several economic and professional factors can affect compensation.
Cost of Living
States with expensive housing and higher everyday costs often have higher wages in many healthcare occupations.
However, salary should not be compared without considering purchasing power.
A $105,000 salary in one location may provide less disposable income than a $90,000 salary in a lower-cost area.
Healthcare Demand
States with large healthcare systems and strong demand for diagnostic imaging professionals may offer more employment opportunities.
A larger healthcare market can also give experienced sonographers more choices when negotiating compensation.
Urban vs. Rural Locations
Large metropolitan areas can have major hospitals, specialty centers, and outpatient imaging facilities.
Rural locations may offer different compensation structures, including incentives designed to attract healthcare professionals.
Specialization
A sonographer with specialized experience may have access to positions that pay differently from general sonography jobs.
Cardiac, vascular, pediatric, breast, and other specialized areas can provide additional career opportunities.
Experience
State salary averages include professionals at different stages of their careers.
An entry-level sonographer should not expect to automatically earn the same salary as an experienced professional with many years of clinical experience.
Sonographer Salary by Work Setting
The state where you work is only one part of the salary equation.
The type of employer can also have a major effect on compensation.
According to BLS, the May 2024 national median wage for diagnostic medical sonographers was highest among major industries in outpatient care centers at $123,610, compared with $90,070 in hospitals and $89,450 in physicians’ offices.
| Work Setting | May 2024 National Median | Potential Salary Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | $123,610 | Strong earning potential |
| Hospitals | $90,070 | Stable employment and shift opportunities |
| Physicians’ Offices | $89,450 | Often more predictable schedules |
| Medical & Diagnostic Laboratories | $83,200 | Varies by employer and specialty |
This demonstrates why simply choosing the state with the highest average salary is not enough. The employer and work setting should also be considered.
Discover More:
Sonographer Salary by Experience
Experience can significantly affect where a sonographer falls within a state’s salary range.
Entry-Level Sonographer
A newly qualified sonographer may begin near the lower portion of the local salary distribution.
Entry-level pay can be influenced by:
- Clinical training
- Certification
- Specialty
- Employer
- Geographic area
- Local demand
Mid-Career Sonographer
After several years, professionals may move closer to or above the state median.
At this stage, a sonographer may have stronger technical skills and may qualify for specialty positions.
Experienced Sonographer
Experienced professionals may reach the upper part of their state’s salary distribution.
Additional responsibilities, specialty expertise, overtime, leadership, and premium shifts can further increase total compensation.
How to Choose the Best State for Sonography
The highest-paying state is not necessarily the best state for every sonographer.
Before accepting a position, compare several factors.
Compare Salary and Cost of Living
Look at:
- Housing costs
- Transportation
- Utilities
- Taxes
- Food costs
- Healthcare expenses
- Childcare
- Insurance
A higher salary may be less attractive if living expenses are dramatically higher.
Compare Job Availability
A state with a high salary but relatively few positions may not offer as many opportunities as a state with a large healthcare market.
For example, California had approximately 9,240 diagnostic medical sonographers employed in May 2024, while Hawaii had about 220.
This illustrates the difference between a high-paying market and a large employment market.
Compare Benefits
Look beyond base salary and examine:
- Health insurance
- Retirement contributions
- Paid time off
- Continuing education
- Certification reimbursement
- Overtime
- Shift differentials
- Bonuses
- Relocation assistance
Can Sonographers Make $100,000 a Year?
Yes. Many sonographers can potentially reach or exceed $100,000, particularly in higher-paying states or specialized positions.
The latest state data show median wages above $100,000 in several locations, including Hawaii, California, Oregon, Washington, Colorado, Massachusetts, Alaska, Connecticut, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Arizona.
A $100,000 salary is equivalent to approximately:
| Pay Period | Gross Pay |
|---|---|
| Annual | $100,000 |
| Monthly | $8,333 |
| Biweekly | $3,846 |
| Weekly | $1,923 |
| Hourly | $48.08 |
Actual take-home pay will be lower after taxes and deductions.
Discover More:
Can Sonographers Make $120,000 a Year?
Yes. The May 2024 state data show that the median wage in Hawaii and California was already above $120,000.
Experienced sonographers in other high-paying locations may also reach six-figure compensation through specialty work, leadership positions, overtime, or other premium opportunities.
At $120,000 annually, gross compensation is approximately:
| Pay Period | Gross Pay |
|---|---|
| Annual | $120,000 |
| Monthly | $10,000 |
| Biweekly | $4,615 |
| Weekly | $2,308 |
| Hourly | $57.69 |
How to Increase Your Sonographer Salary
Moving to a higher-paying state is one option, but it is not the only way to increase earnings.
Develop a Specialty
Specialized skills can help you qualify for different positions and may improve your earning potential.
Potential areas include:
- Cardiac sonography
- Vascular sonography
- Pediatric sonography
- OB/GYN sonography
- Breast sonography
- Advanced imaging applications
Gain Clinical Experience
Experience can help you qualify for more advanced positions and gives you greater leverage when evaluating job offers.
Consider Higher-Paying Work Settings
Compare hospitals, outpatient centers, diagnostic laboratories, specialty clinics, and physician offices.
BLS data demonstrate that compensation can differ substantially between these settings.
Consider Travel Sonography
Travel positions can offer attractive compensation packages in some markets.
However, travel work may involve temporary assignments, changing locations, and different scheduling requirements.
Look at Leadership Positions
Experienced professionals can consider roles such as:
- Lead sonographer
- Clinical supervisor
- Sonography educator
- Department coordinator
- Imaging manager
Leadership can provide a path toward higher compensation while also increasing professional responsibilities.
Discover More:
Is Sonography a Good Career in 2027?
Sonography remains an attractive healthcare career for people interested in medical imaging and patient care.
The BLS projects 13% employment growth for diagnostic medical sonographers from 2024 through 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations. BLS also projects about 5,800 openings per year over that period.
Potential advantages include:
- Competitive salary
- Strong employment outlook
- Multiple specialties
- Different work environments
- Opportunities for advancement
- Potential overtime
- Travel opportunities
- Direct involvement in patient care
However, sonography can also be physically demanding. Professionals may spend significant periods standing and may need to position or assist patients during examinations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sonographer Salary by State
What state pays sonographers the most?
Based on May 2024 median wage data, Hawaii had the highest median annual wage at $122,030, followed by California at $120,840.
What state pays sonographers the least?
Among states with reported May 2024 data, Alabama had the lowest median annual wage at approximately $66,340.
How much do sonographers make in California?
The May 2024 median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers in California was approximately $120,840, while the mean was $118,950.
How much do sonographers make in Texas?
The May 2024 median annual wage in Texas was approximately $84,900, with a mean annual wage of $85,030.
How much do sonographers make in Florida?
The May 2024 median annual wage in Florida was approximately $81,240, with a mean of $82,590.
How much do sonographers make in New York?
The May 2024 median annual wage in New York was approximately $101,930, with a mean annual wage of $100,210.
Is $100,000 a good salary for a sonographer?
Yes. A $100,000 sonographer salary is above the national median and can provide strong earning potential. However, its purchasing power depends heavily on the state and local cost of living.
Does location matter for sonographer salary?
Yes. State-level wage data demonstrate substantial geographic differences in sonographer compensation. The national median alone does not accurately represent what a sonographer can expect in every location.
Will sonographer salaries increase by 2027?
Salaries can change because of inflation, healthcare demand, labor shortages, employer competition, and local economic conditions. The 2027 ranges in this article should therefore be treated as planning estimates rather than guaranteed salaries.
Conclusion
Sonographer salary by state can vary dramatically, making location an important consideration when planning a career in diagnostic medical sonography.
The latest available BLS data show a national median annual wage of $89,340, but state median salaries range considerably higher or lower than the national figure. In May 2024, Hawaii had a median of $122,030, California had $120,840, while Alabama had $66,340.
For 2027, the best approach is to consider more than the advertised salary. Compare the state, metropolitan area, employer, specialty, benefits, schedule, and cost of living before making a career decision.
A sonographer earning $90,000 in one state may have a very different lifestyle from someone earning $110,000 in another state.
The strongest career strategy is therefore not simply finding the state with the highest salary. It is finding the combination of competitive pay, strong job availability, manageable living costs, good benefits, and opportunities for professional growth.
With strong employment growth projected for diagnostic medical sonographers, the profession should continue to provide opportunities for both new graduates and experienced professionals through 2027 and beyond.
I’ve kept the 2027 numbers clearly labeled as estimates, so the article doesn’t present projected figures as if they were already official 2027 BLS statistics.
Zak is a dedicated medical and career writer specializing in sonography, healthcare education, and professional development. Through SonographerSalary.com, he shares in-depth insights on sonographer salaries, education pathways, and career tips to help readers build successful futures in medical imaging. His content combines accuracy with practical, easy-to-understand guidance, empowering students and professionals to make confident, informed career decisions.