Average Registered Ultrasound Technologist Salary by State & Nationally (2024)

Several factors come into play when it comes to boosting your salary as a sonographer. Job Location: Location isn’t just the state where you’re working. Your demographic area matters, as well. For example, California is one of the states that pays sonographers the most. However, pay can vary from one part of the state to another. Sonographers in San Francisco earn more than ultrasound techs in Santa Barbara. Typically, the closer you are to an urban or metropolitan area, the higher your pay.Experience and Education: Another way to boost your income potential is to gain experience and continue your education. You can also earn one of several professional certifications through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS) or your Sonography RT credential through the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and join professional associations like the Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS).

Specialization: The type of sonography you practice can affect your pay. Neurosonology Sonography is the highest-paying sonography specialty. The average annual wage for a neuro sonographer is $112,000 or $54 an hour.Work Setting: Where you practice can impact both your pay and career advancement. The BLS reports that outpatient care centers are the highest-paying industries for sonographers. The average annual salary for this setting is $109,670 or $53 an hour.