Pediatric Ultrasound Tech Salary: If you are considering a career in medical imaging, you may have wondered about becoming a pediatric ultrasound technician. This specialized field combines the science of diagnostic imaging with the joy of working with children. But how much do pediatric sonographers actually make? Is the salary worth the effort of training and certification?
In this guide, we will break down the pediatric ultrasound technician salary, covering everything from hourly rates to monthly salaries, how pay changes with experience, and even which states offer the highest wages. Whether you’re just getting started or already working in healthcare, this post will help you understand the financial side of this rewarding career.
What Does a Pediatric Ultrasound Technician Do?
Before we dive into salary specifics, it’s helpful to understand the role itself. Pediatric ultrasound technicians, also known as pediatric sonographers, are trained to operate ultrasound equipment to capture images of children’s internal organs and systems. They assist physicians in diagnosing a range of medical conditions in newborns, infants, children, and adolescents.
Due to the unique nature of working with young patients, pediatric ultrasound techs need strong communication skills and patience, along with technical expertise.
Average Pediatric Sonographer Salary in 2025
So, what is the average pediatric sonographer salary in 2025? On a national level in the United States, the average annual salary for pediatric ultrasound technicians ranges between $74,000 and $98,000, depending on various factors like location, education, certification, and experience.
This puts them on par with other medical imaging professionals, and in some cases, they can even earn more due to their specialized skill set.
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Pediatric Ultrasound Technician Salary Per Month
Let’s break it down even further. The pediatric ultrasound technician salary per month can range between $6,200 to $8,200. This monthly income typically includes base salary but can vary based on whether the technician works full-time, part-time, or picks up additional shifts.
Hospitals and pediatric clinics may also offer benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and continuing education stipends that add value beyond the base salary.
Pediatric Sonographer Hourly Wages
If you’re working on a contract, freelance basis, or part-time, you might want to focus on the hourly rate for pediatric ultrasound technicians. In 2025, the average hourly wage is between $35 and $48 per hour, depending on geographic region and employer type.
For example:
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A hospital-based tech in California may earn around $45/hour
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A private pediatric clinic in Texas might offer $38/hour
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An entry-level technician in a rural area may start closer to $32/hour
These figures highlight how important location and experience can be in determining hourly wages.
Entry-Level Pediatric Sonographer Pay
New to the field? The entry-level pediatric sonographer pay typically starts at around $65,000 to $72,000 annually. While this might be on the lower end compared to experienced professionals, it’s still a strong starting salary, especially for a career that typically requires just 2–4 years of education.
This stage is also when many sonographers begin to specialize or pursue certifications to boost their earnings.
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Experienced Pediatric Ultrasound Technician Salary
On the other end of the spectrum, the experienced pediatric ultrasound technician salary can reach $100,000 or more per year. With over 5–10 years in the field, plus additional credentials like RDMS (Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographer) in Pediatrics, professionals can command top-tier salaries.
Experience matters a lot in this field—not only do experienced techs work more efficiently, but their bedside manner and ability to handle complex pediatric cases add tremendous value.
Pediatric Ultrasound Tech Pay Scale
Understanding the pediatric ultrasound tech pay scale means considering multiple factors:
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Years of experience (Entry-level vs. Senior)
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Certification and education level
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Type of employer (Hospital, clinic, travel assignment)
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Work schedule (Day shift, night shift, weekend rotations)
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Location (Urban vs. rural)
Here’s a quick breakdown of how the pay scale might look:
| Experience Level | Hourly Rate | Monthly Salary | Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level | $32–$36 | $5,500–$6,200 | $65,000–$72,000 |
| Mid-Level | $38–$44 | $6,600–$7,600 | $80,000–$91,000 |
| Senior-Level | $45–$50+ | $7,800–$8,500 | $95,000–$105,000+ |
Pediatric Ultrasound Technician Income Breakdown
Let’s look at a simple pediatric ultrasound technician income breakdown:
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Base Salary: The primary portion of income, usually between $70,000–$100,000.
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Overtime/On-call Pay: Many techs boost their income through night/weekend shifts.
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Bonuses: Some hospitals and clinics offer performance-based or holiday bonuses.
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Benefits: Retirement plans, healthcare, PTO, and tuition reimbursement can add significant value.
All these components contribute to the total compensation of a pediatric ultrasound tech.
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Pediatric Ultrasound Salary with Experience
The longer you stay in the profession, the more your salary is likely to grow. The pediatric ultrasound salary with experience shows a steady increase over time:
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1–3 years: $65,000 – $75,000
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4–7 years: $80,000 – $90,000
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8+ years: $95,000 – $105,000+
Certifications and advanced specialties (like echocardiography or neuro sonography) can push those numbers even higher.
Pediatric Ultrasound Tech Salary by State
One of the biggest factors influencing salary is geographic location. Here’s a snapshot of pediatric ultrasound tech salary by state:
| State | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $105,000 |
| New York | $98,500 |
| Texas | $89,000 |
| Florida | $84,000 |
| Illinois | $91,000 |
| Washington | $100,000 |
| Georgia | $86,000 |
States with a higher cost of living typically offer higher wages, but that doesn’t always mean you’ll take home more. Factor in taxes and living expenses when evaluating job offers.
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Highest Paying States for Pediatric Sonographers
Looking to earn top dollar? The highest paying states for pediatric sonographers in 2025 include:
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California – High demand and cost of living drive up salaries.
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Washington – Competitive wages with a strong healthcare network.
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Massachusetts – Offers high compensation due to advanced medical facilities.
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New York – Big-city hospitals pay well but come with a fast-paced environment.
Travel positions in these areas can also be highly lucrative.
Salary Growth for Pediatric Ultrasound Technicians
The salary growth for pediatric ultrasound technicians is promising, especially with the increasing demand for pediatric imaging. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that sonography jobs will grow by 10% from 2024 to 2034, which is faster than average.
As more children’s hospitals and specialty clinics open, opportunities for skilled pediatric techs will rise. Technicians who upskill and stay current with new imaging technologies will see consistent salary increases throughout their careers.
Factors Affecting Pediatric Ultrasound Technician Salary
Several variables influence how much you’ll earn:
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Certification level (RDMS, ARDMS, etc.)
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Workplace type (Hospital, outpatient center, travel assignment)
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Work hours (Night shifts usually pay more)
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State and city cost of living
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Seniority and job role (Lead techs and supervisors earn more)
By paying attention to these factors affecting pediatric ultrasound technician salary, you can make strategic career choices that boost your income over time.
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Is Becoming a Pediatric Ultrasound Tech Worth It?
With competitive pay, job security, and the joy of helping young patients, this career is not only financially stable but personally fulfilling. Whether you’re looking at the annual salary, the hourly rate, or how earnings increase based on experience, the numbers speak for themselves.
Here’s why it’s a smart choice:
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Strong salary growth over time
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High demand across the U.S.
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Opportunities for specialization
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Rewarding and meaningful work
Final Thoughts
Choosing to become a pediatric ultrasound technician is more than just a career—it’s a calling. And the pediatric ultrasound technician salary reflects the value and importance of the role. From your monthly salary to your hourly rate, and how your income grows with experience, the financial rewards are solid.
As you plan your path, remember to consider:
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Location
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Certification
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Experience level
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Job flexibility
Whether you are just starting out or you’re an experienced tech looking to specialize, this is one field where both heart and wallet are rewarded.
FAQs:
How much does a pediatric ultrasound tech make per hour?
On average, a pediatric ultrasound tech earns $35 to $48 per hour, depending on location and experience. New techs may start around $32/hour, while experienced professionals in high-demand areas can make over $50/hour. Shifts, certifications, and work settings like hospitals or clinics also influence hourly pay.
Do pediatric sonographers make more than regular sonographers?
Yes, in many cases. Pediatric sonographers often earn slightly more due to their specialized training and experience with young patients. Employers value their skill in handling delicate, age-specific procedures. While salaries vary by state and setting, pediatric sonographers can make $5,000 to $10,000 more annually than general diagnostic sonographers.
What state pays pediatric ultrasound technicians the most?
Currently, California tops the list, with average salaries reaching over $105,000 per year. Other high-paying states include Washington, New York, and Massachusetts. These regions typically offer higher pay due to the cost of living, demand for specialists, and availability of advanced pediatric care facilities.
Is pediatric ultrasound a good career path?
Absolutely. Pediatric ultrasound offers great pay, job stability, and the emotional reward of working with children. It’s a specialized, in-demand field with room for growth. You can start with a two-year degree, and further certifications can boost your income and opportunities significantly.
How does experience affect pediatric ultrasound tech salary?
Experience plays a big role in salary. Entry-level pediatric ultrasound techs earn around $65,000 to $72,000 annually. With 5+ years of experience, salaries can exceed $95,000, especially with advanced certifications. Employers often reward seasoned professionals with leadership roles, higher hourly rates, and bonuses.