Are you considering a career as an ultrasound technician (also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer) in Texas? One of the first questions that likely comes to mind is: “How Much Do Ultrasound Techs Make In Texas?” This guide provides a detailed look at the salaries, job outlook, and factors influencing earnings for ultrasound techs in the Lone Star State.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers: National Overview
Before diving into Texas-specific data, let’s look at the national picture for diagnostic medical sonographers. According to the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
- National Employment: 82,780
- Mean Hourly Wage: $42.80
- Mean Annual Wage: $89,020
This data provides a benchmark for understanding how Texas compares to the national average.
Ultrasound Tech Salaries in Texas: A Closer Look
In Texas, the employment and wage figures for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers are:
- Employment: 7,360
- Mean Hourly Wage: $39.04
- Mean Annual Wage: $81,200
While the average salary is slightly lower than the national average, Texas still offers a competitive and stable career path for ultrasound technicians.
Texas Salary Percentiles:
To further understand the salary range in Texas, here’s a breakdown by percentile:
- 10th Percentile Annual Wage: $63,680
- 25th Percentile Annual Wage: $75,640
- 50th Percentile (Median) Annual Wage: $84,470
- 75th Percentile Annual Wage: $100,580
- 90th Percentile Annual Wage: $116,300
This shows that experienced and highly skilled ultrasound techs in Texas can earn well above the average.
Factors Influencing Ultrasound Tech Salaries in Texas
Several factors can influence how much an ultrasound tech makes in Texas:
- Experience: As with most professions, experience plays a significant role. Entry-level sonographers typically earn less than those with several years of experience.
- Education and Certifications: Holding advanced certifications, such as those from the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography (ARDMS), can lead to higher earning potential.
- Industry: The type of healthcare facility can impact salary. For example, outpatient care centers tend to pay higher than general medical and surgical hospitals
- Location: Salaries can vary depending on the city or region within Texas.
- Employer: Large hospital systems or specialized clinics may offer higher salaries and benefits packages.
Highest Paying Industries for Ultrasound Techs
Here’s a glimpse into industries in the U.S. that offer top pay for Diagnostic Medical Sonographers:
| Industry | Employment | Percent of industry employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Care Centers | 3,290 | 0.31 | $59.15 | $123,020 |
| Management of Companies and Enterprises | 50 | – | $51.69 | $107,520 |
| Specialty (except Psychiatric and Substance Abuse) Hospitals | 790 | 0.28 | $46.12 | $95,920 |
Location Quotient and Job Concentration
The location quotient is the ratio of the area concentration of occupational employment to the national average concentration. A location quotient greater than one indicates the occupation has a higher share of employment than average. Texas has a location quotient of 1.00, showing that employment is on par with the national average.
Metropolitan Areas in Texas
Here’s a snapshot of some metropolitan areas in Texas with employment data for ultrasound technicians:
| Metropolitan area | Employment | Employment per thousand jobs | Location quotient | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington, TX | 2,110 | 0.53 | 0.97 | $42.09 | $87,550 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land, TX | 1,980 | 0.62 | 1.14 | $37.58 | $78,160 |
| College Station-Bryan, TX | 180 | 1.37 | 2.51 | $38.62 | $80,330 |
Job Outlook for Ultrasound Techs in Texas
The demand for ultrasound technicians is expected to grow in the coming years, driven by factors such as:
- Aging Population: As the population ages, the need for diagnostic imaging services will increase.
- Technological Advancements: Advances in ultrasound technology are expanding the applications of this imaging modality.
- Non-invasive Nature: Ultrasound is a non-invasive and relatively low-cost imaging technique, making it a preferred option for many diagnostic purposes.
Conclusion
So, how much do ultrasound techs make in Texas? While the average annual salary is around $81,200, this number can vary significantly based on experience, education, location, and employer. With a growing demand for diagnostic imaging services, a career as an ultrasound technician in Texas offers a promising and rewarding opportunity. Consider pursuing the necessary education and certifications to maximize your earning potential in this field.
