May 2025 BLS data
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer salary in California
The median diagnostic medical sonographer in California earns $128,530/year ($61.79/hr) — 33% above the national median.
Median pay
$128,530/yr
Hourly median
$61.79/hr
State rank
#1 of 51
Employed
10,110
Diagnostic Medical Sonographer pay percentiles in California
| Percentile | Hourly | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $30.24 | $62,890 |
| 25th percentile | $47.84 | $99,510 |
| Median (50th) | $61.79 | $128,530 |
| 75th percentile | $77.20 | $160,580 |
| 90th percentile | $85.47 | $177,780 |
The spread is large: top-decile diagnostic medical sonographers in California out-earn the bottom decile by $55.23/hour — experience, certifications, and setting drive most of that gap.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2025.
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What do people in your role actually earn?
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in California earn
$30.24–$85.47 /hour
Median $128,530/year · 10,110 employed
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS May 2025
Nearby states compared
Top-paying states for diagnostic medical sonographers
- 1. California$128,530/yr
- 2. Hawaii$124,430/yr
- 3. Washington$121,340/yr
- 4. Oregon$120,220/yr
- 5. District of Columbia$112,020/yr
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Diagnostic Medical Sonographer salaries in every stateFrequently asked questions
How much does a diagnostic medical sonographer make in California?
The median diagnostic medical sonographer in California earns $128,530 per year, or $61.79 per hour, according to May 2025 BLS data. Most earn between $62,890 (10th percentile) and $177,780 (90th percentile).
What is a good diagnostic medical sonographer salary in California?
Top-quartile diagnostic medical sonographers in California earn $160,580 or more per year ($77.20/hr). Reaching that range typically comes from experience, certifications, and higher-paying settings.
How does California compare to other states for diagnostic medical sonographers?
California ranks #1 of 51 states, with a median 33% above the national median of $96,590.
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in California?
Entry-level pay typically falls near the 10th–25th percentile: $62,890–$99,510 per year ($30.24–$47.84/hr) in California.