How to Become a Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in California
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers in California earn a median salary of $120,840/year, which is 35% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.1%. After taxes and rent, a diagnostic medical sonographers takes home approximately $5,752/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a diagnostic medical sonographers can afford in California
Becoming a diagnostic medical sonographers in California
Meet education requirements
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many diagnostic medical sonographers positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for diagnostic medical sonographerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 9,240 diagnostic medical sonographers. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and Vallejo.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $171K | $82.02/hr | 490 |
| Vallejo | $165K | $79.34/hr | 110 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $161K | $77.45/hr | 1,170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $158K | $75.79/hr | 590 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville | $152K | $73.07/hr | 40 |
| Santa Rosa-Petaluma | $144K | $69.11/hr | 90 |
| Santa Maria-Santa Barbara | $141K | $67.78/hr | 90 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $129K | $62.23/hr | 570 |
| San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles | $128K | $61.41/hr | 50 |
| Stockton-Lodi | $125K | $59.96/hr | 130 |
| Modesto | $124K | $59.78/hr | 150 |
| Oxnard-Thousand Oaks-Ventura | $121K | $58.11/hr | 130 |
| Merced | $117K | $56.36/hr | 40 |
| Salinas | $115K | $55.29/hr | 60 |
| Chico | $109K | $52.41/hr | 60 |
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers salary range in California
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a diagnostic medical sonographers make in California?▼
The median diagnostic medical sonographers salary in California is $120,840 per year ($58.09/hr). This is 35% above the national median of $89,340. Salaries range from $58,240 to $173,790.
What are the requirements to become a diagnostic medical sonographers in California?▼
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a diagnostic medical sonographers afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $120,840, a diagnostic medical sonographers in California would take home approximately $7,164/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 19.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for diagnostic medical sonographers in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for diagnostic medical sonographers in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($170,600), Vallejo ($165,020), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($161,090). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for diagnostic medical sonographers?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.1%. On a $120,840 salary, this means roughly $7,376/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.