If you are planning a career in diagnostic medical sonography, one of the first questions you may have is: How much will an ultrasound tech make in 2027?
Ultrasound technicians, also known as diagnostic medical sonographers, operate ultrasound equipment to create images of structures inside the body. They may work in hospitals, outpatient imaging centers, physician offices, laboratories, and other healthcare settings.
The salary outlook is attractive. The latest U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data show that diagnostic medical sonographers had a median annual wage of $96,590 in May 2025. The profession is also projected to grow by 13% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Because official 2027 wage data are not yet available, this guide uses the latest published wage information as the foundation and provides 2027 salary estimates and planning ranges, rather than presenting future numbers as official statistics.
Your actual ultrasound tech salary in 2027 will depend on experience, specialty, certification, location, employer, work setting, and schedule.
Ultrasound Tech Salary in 2027
The latest official data provide a useful starting point for estimating 2027 earnings.
BLS reported a $96,590 median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers in May 2025. Its published wage distribution also shows that the lowest 10% earned less than $63,630, while the highest 10% earned more than $134,430.
For 2027 career planning, a reasonable estimated range is approximately $70,000 to $110,000+ per year, with some experienced and specialized sonographers potentially earning considerably more.
| 2027 Salary Level | Estimated Annual Salary | Approx. Hourly Equivalent* |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | $65,000–$75,000 | $31.25–$36.06 |
| Early Career | $75,000–$85,000 | $36.06–$40.87 |
| Mid-Career | $85,000–$100,000 | $40.87–$48.08 |
| Experienced | $100,000–$115,000 | $48.08–$55.29 |
| Highly Specialized | $110,000–$135,000+ | $52.88–$64.90+ |
*Hourly equivalents assume 2,080 working hours per year. They are not guaranteed hourly wages.
These ranges are 2027 estimates, not official BLS 2027 salary figures. Actual compensation can vary substantially by state, employer, specialty, and experience.
Latest Official Salary Data Before 2027
Understanding the difference between actual and projected numbers is important when researching ultrasound tech salary 2027.
The most recent BLS data available provide a reliable benchmark for the profession. In May 2025, diagnostic medical sonographers had a median annual wage of $96,590.
BLS data also show strong variation across the wage distribution.
| Wage Measure | Latest Official Figure |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | Less than $63,630 |
| Median | $96,590 |
| 90th Percentile | More than $134,430 |
| Latest Data Year | May 2025 |
| 2027 Data Status | Not yet official |
The distinction matters because it would be misleading to describe an estimated 2027 figure as an official national average.
For someone planning education or employment in 2027, the latest official data combined with recent wage trends can instead be used to establish a realistic salary expectation.
Ultrasound Tech Salary Per Hour in 2027
Many ultrasound technicians are paid hourly rather than receiving a fixed annual salary.
Using a standard 40-hour workweek and 52 weeks per year, annual salaries can be converted into approximate hourly equivalents.
| Annual Salary | Approx. Hourly Equivalent |
|---|---|
| $65,000 | $31.25 |
| $70,000 | $33.65 |
| $75,000 | $36.06 |
| $80,000 | $38.46 |
| $85,000 | $40.87 |
| $90,000 | $43.27 |
| $95,000 | $45.67 |
| $100,000 | $48.08 |
| $105,000 | $50.48 |
| $110,000 | $52.88 |
| $120,000 | $57.69 |
| $130,000 | $62.50 |
| $140,000 | $67.31 |
These are mathematical conversions rather than separate salary statistics.
Actual hourly pay can be higher when a sonographer receives overtime, weekend premiums, night-shift differentials, holiday pay, or other compensation.
Ultrasound Tech Salary by Experience
Experience is an important factor in determining how much an ultrasound technician can earn.
A newly qualified sonographer generally has less negotiating power than someone who has spent several years performing examinations and developing advanced technical skills.
Entry-Level Ultrasound Tech Salary
An entry-level ultrasound technician may earn approximately $65,000 to $75,000 per year in a 2027 planning estimate.
Starting salaries can vary significantly. A new sonographer in a high-paying metropolitan area may receive a stronger offer than someone beginning work in a lower-paying market.
Entry-level professionals typically focus on developing:
- Patient communication skills
- Scanning techniques
- Anatomy knowledge
- Image optimization
- Equipment operation
- Clinical confidence
- Examination protocols
Mid-Career Ultrasound Tech Salary
After gaining several years of experience, a sonographer may move toward the $85,000–$100,000 range.
At this stage, professionals may also become eligible for specialized positions or positions with greater responsibility.
Experience can make a significant difference when negotiating compensation or applying for jobs with larger healthcare systems.
Experienced Ultrasound Tech Salary
Experienced sonographers may earn $100,000 or more, particularly when they have specialized credentials, work in higher-paying markets, or receive additional compensation.
Senior professionals may also move into roles such as:
- Lead sonographer
- Senior sonographer
- Clinical coordinator
- Imaging supervisor
- Clinical educator
- Specialty sonographer
Ultrasound Tech Salary by Specialty
Specialization can influence earning potential because different sonography specialties require different levels of knowledge and technical expertise.
General Sonography
General diagnostic medical sonographers perform a wide range of examinations involving organs, tissues, and other structures.
This can provide a strong foundation for a career and may allow professionals to develop experience before moving into a specialized field.
Cardiac Sonography
Cardiac sonographers, often called echocardiographers, specialize in ultrasound imaging of the heart.
Because cardiac imaging requires specialized knowledge and skills, experienced cardiac sonographers may have strong earning opportunities.
Vascular Sonography
Vascular sonographers use ultrasound to examine blood vessels and blood flow.
This specialty can provide opportunities in hospitals, vascular laboratories, outpatient facilities, and other clinical environments.
OB/GYN Sonography
OB/GYN sonographers perform examinations related to pregnancy and the female reproductive system.
This is a popular specialization for sonographers interested in maternal and fetal imaging.
Pediatric Sonography
Pediatric sonography focuses on imaging infants, children, and adolescents.
Working with pediatric patients can require additional communication skills and specialized clinical experience.
| Specialty | 2027 Potential Salary Range* |
|---|---|
| General Sonography | $70,000–$105,000 |
| OB/GYN Sonography | $70,000–$105,000+ |
| Vascular Sonography | $80,000–$115,000+ |
| Cardiac Sonography | $80,000–$120,000+ |
| Pediatric Sonography | $75,000–$110,000+ |
| Highly Specialized Roles | $100,000–$135,000+ |
*These are broad 2027 planning estimates and should not be interpreted as official national specialty-specific BLS salaries.
Ultrasound Tech Salary by Work Setting
The place where you work can also affect your compensation.
The latest BLS data demonstrate this difference clearly. In May 2024, median wages were particularly high in outpatient care centers compared with several other major industries.
Hospitals
Hospitals employ a large number of diagnostic medical sonographers.
Hospital jobs may offer:
- Competitive base pay
- Health insurance
- Retirement benefits
- Paid vacation
- Overtime
- Weekend differentials
- Night-shift differentials
- Career advancement
Hospital work can also expose sonographers to a broad range of examinations and patients.
Outpatient Imaging Centers
Outpatient imaging centers are another important employment setting.
BLS reported a $123,610 median annual wage in outpatient care centers in May 2024, compared with $90,070 in hospitals and $89,450 in physician offices.
This does not mean every outpatient position pays more than every hospital position. Employer, location, specialty, experience, and job responsibilities still matter.
Physician Offices
Some sonographers work in physician practices, particularly in specialties such as:
- OB/GYN
- Cardiology
- Vascular medicine
- Women’s health
- Diagnostic imaging
These positions may offer specialized clinical experience and, in some cases, more predictable schedules.
Ultrasound Tech Salary by State
Geographic location can have a major influence on salary.
States with large healthcare systems, strong demand for healthcare workers, higher local wages, or high living costs may offer higher compensation.
The following table should be treated as a 2027 planning estimate, not an official state salary table.
| State | Estimated 2027 Salary Range |
|---|---|
| California | $90,000–$125,000+ |
| New York | $85,000–$115,000+ |
| Massachusetts | $85,000–$115,000+ |
| Washington | $82,000–$112,000+ |
| Oregon | $78,000–$108,000+ |
| New Jersey | $80,000–$110,000+ |
| Connecticut | $78,000–$108,000+ |
| Colorado | $75,000–$105,000+ |
| Texas | $70,000–$100,000+ |
| Florida | $65,000–$95,000+ |
| Pennsylvania | $68,000–$98,000+ |
| Ohio | $65,000–$95,000+ |
| Michigan | $65,000–$95,000+ |
| Georgia | $65,000–$95,000+ |
| North Carolina | $65,000–$95,000+ |
Actual salaries can differ substantially within the same state.
For example, a sonographer working in a major metropolitan area may earn more than a professional working in a rural community within the same state.
Highest-Paying Areas for Ultrasound Techs
Salary is often higher in major metropolitan healthcare markets, but a high salary does not automatically mean better financial circumstances.
When comparing locations, consider:
- Base salary
- Housing costs
- State and local taxes
- Transportation
- Health insurance
- Retirement benefits
- Overtime opportunities
- Shift differentials
- Job availability
A $110,000 salary in a very expensive city may not provide the same purchasing power as a $90,000 salary in a lower-cost area.
Therefore, the best-paying ultrasound tech job should be evaluated based on total compensation and cost of living.
Factors That Affect Ultrasound Tech Salary
Several factors can increase or decrease your earning potential.
Education and Training
Diagnostic medical sonographers typically need an associate degree or postsecondary certificate, depending on the pathway and employer. BLS lists an associate degree as the typical entry-level education for the occupation.
A strong educational foundation can help prepare students for clinical work and professional credentials.
Certification
Certification can improve employability and may be expected or preferred by employers.
Requirements vary by state and employer, so professionals should check the requirements in their intended work location.
Experience
Experience can improve your ability to handle complex examinations and may qualify you for senior or specialty positions.
Specialization
Specialized sonographers can potentially access different employment opportunities than general sonographers.
Cardiac and vascular imaging, for example, require additional specialized knowledge.
Location
Location remains one of the most important salary variables.
A high-demand healthcare market can provide stronger salary opportunities, although living costs may also be higher.
Work Schedule
Working nights, weekends, holidays, or on-call shifts may result in additional compensation.
Discover More:
How to Increase Your Ultrasound Tech Salary in 2027
If your goal is to maximize your earning potential, focus on skills and qualifications that employers value.
Develop a Specialty
Specializing can make you more competitive for positions requiring advanced knowledge.
Potential areas include:
- Cardiac sonography
- Vascular sonography
- OB/GYN
- Pediatric imaging
- Advanced diagnostic imaging
Gain Clinical Experience
Practical experience is extremely valuable.
Focus on improving:
- Scanning technique
- Image quality
- Patient positioning
- Anatomy recognition
- Equipment operation
- Communication
- Documentation
Consider Higher-Paying Employers
Compare positions across:
- Hospitals
- Outpatient centers
- Physician offices
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Specialty clinics
- Travel assignments
Do not compare only the advertised base salary. Review the entire compensation package.
Consider Travel Sonography
Travel assignments can provide opportunities to work in different healthcare facilities and markets.
Compensation may include a combination of taxable wages, stipends, reimbursements, and bonuses, so the complete package should be evaluated rather than focusing on one number.
Negotiate Your Offer
When negotiating, ask about more than base salary.
Important questions include:
- Is overtime available?
- Is there a night differential?
- Is weekend work paid differently?
- Are certification fees reimbursed?
- Is continuing education supported?
- What retirement benefits are offered?
- How much paid time off is included?
A job with a slightly lower base salary may sometimes provide greater total compensation.
Ultrasound Tech Salary Compared With Other Imaging Careers
Ultrasound technology is one of several careers available in medical imaging.
The latest BLS figures provide useful comparisons. For example, BLS lists 2025 median pay of $95,480 for MRI technologists and $80,110 for radiologic technologists and technicians.
| Healthcare Career | Latest BLS Median Pay* |
|---|---|
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographers | $96,590 |
| MRI Technologists | $95,480 |
| Radiologic Technologists | $80,110 |
| Cardiovascular Technologists | $74,310 |
*Figures are latest available BLS figures for the respective occupations and are not 2027 projections.
Salary should not be the only factor when selecting a healthcare career. Training length, work environment, patient interaction, physical demands, career advancement, and personal interests are also important.
Is Ultrasound Technology a Good Career in 2027?
For many students, ultrasound technology can be a strong healthcare career choice.
The employment outlook is particularly encouraging. BLS projects 13% employment growth for diagnostic medical sonographers from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.
Potential advantages include:
- Competitive compensation
- Strong projected employment growth
- Multiple specialties
- Opportunities in different healthcare settings
- Relatively accessible educational pathway
- Opportunities for advancement
- Potential overtime and shift premiums
However, the profession also has physical and emotional demands.
Sonographers may spend significant periods standing, positioning patients, and performing repetitive scanning movements. The work can also involve patients who are sick, uncomfortable, or anxious.
Understanding the actual job responsibilities is therefore just as important as researching salary.
How Much Does an Ultrasound Tech Make a Year in 2027?
A realistic 2027 planning estimate for many ultrasound technicians is approximately $70,000 to $110,000+ annually.
Entry-level professionals may fall closer to the lower end, while experienced and specialized sonographers may reach or exceed the upper end.
The latest official BLS median was $96,590 in May 2025, providing a useful benchmark for understanding the earning potential of the occupation.
Professionals in higher-paying settings or locations may earn substantially more.
Discover More:
How Much Does an Ultrasound Tech Make an Hour in 2027?
Using a standard 2,080-hour work year, an ultrasound technician earning $96,590 would have an approximate hourly equivalent of $46.44 per hour.
For planning purposes:
- $70,000 ≈ $33.65/hour
- $80,000 ≈ $38.46/hour
- $90,000 ≈ $43.27/hour
- $100,000 ≈ $48.08/hour
- $110,000 ≈ $52.88/hour
- $120,000 ≈ $57.69/hour
These calculations represent salary equivalents rather than guaranteed hourly rates.
Overtime, bonuses, shift premiums, and different work schedules can change actual compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Tech Salary 2027
What is the average ultrasound tech salary in 2027?
Official 2027 salary data are not yet available. For planning purposes, many ultrasound technicians may fall within an estimated $70,000–$110,000+ annual range, while the latest BLS median was $96,590 in May 2025.
Can an ultrasound tech make $100,000 a year?
Yes. Experienced sonographers can potentially earn $100,000 or more, particularly in higher-paying locations, specialized positions, outpatient settings, or jobs with overtime and shift premiums.
Can an ultrasound tech make $120,000 a year?
Yes, although $120,000 should generally be viewed as an upper-end earning level rather than a typical salary for every sonographer. Specialty, experience, location, and employer can make a significant difference.
What ultrasound specialty pays the most?
There is no single specialty that pays the most in every location. Cardiac and vascular sonography can provide strong earning opportunities, but compensation varies by employer, geographic area, experience, and demand.
Do ultrasound techs make good money?
Yes. Diagnostic medical sonography offers competitive healthcare compensation. The latest BLS median wage of $96,590 was substantially above the median wage for all occupations in the United States.
Does experience increase ultrasound tech pay?
Experience can improve earning potential by helping sonographers qualify for senior, specialized, supervisory, or higher-paying positions.
Is ultrasound technology a growing career?
Yes. BLS projects employment for diagnostic medical sonographers to grow 13% from 2024 to 2034, which is much faster than average.
What education is needed to become an ultrasound tech?
BLS lists an associate degree as the typical entry-level education for diagnostic medical sonographers, although educational pathways and employer requirements can vary.
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Conclusion
The ultrasound tech salary 2027 outlook remains promising for people interested in diagnostic imaging and healthcare.
Because official 2027 salary data are not yet available, the most reliable approach is to use current BLS data as the benchmark and treat future figures as estimates. The latest BLS data report a $96,590 median annual wage for diagnostic medical sonographers in May 2025, while employment is projected to grow 13% between 2024 and 2034.
For 2027 planning, many professionals can reasonably consider a broad earning range of approximately $70,000 to $110,000+ per year, with experienced and specialized sonographers potentially earning more.
Your actual salary will depend on several factors, especially experience, specialty, certification, location, employer, work setting, and schedule.
If you are entering the profession, focus on building strong clinical skills and obtaining the credentials required for your target specialty. As your career develops, specialization, experience, strategic job changes, travel assignments, and salary negotiation can all provide opportunities to increase your income.
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.