Ultrasound technicians in South Carolina earn an average salary of $72,000 per year. Entry-level positions start at around $60,000, while experienced sonographers can earn up to $85,000 annually. Salaries vary based on location, certification, and specialization in diagnostic medical sonography.
Average Salary for Ultrasound Techs in South Carolina
The average salary for ultrasound techs in South Carolina is $72,000 per year. Entry-level sonographers earn about $60,000, while those with advanced certifications or 5+ years of experience can make up to $85,000. SC salaries are slightly below the national median, but lower living costs help balance earnings.
Salary Breakdown:
| Role/Type | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary | Weekly (Travel) | Salary Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Registered Ultrasound Technologist | $33.08 | ~$68,800 | — | — | 39% below US average |
| Sonographer (Indeed, statewide) | $78.52 | — | — | — | Outlier, likely top earners |
| Ultrasound Technologist I (Salary.com) | — | $80,285 | — | $60,915 – $99,392 | Most earn $70,146 – $90,286 |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (Avg) | — | $74,930 | — | $50,300 – $88,430 | 16% above national average |
| Sonographer (Charleston, SC) | $74.61 | — | — | — | City-specific |
| Travel Registered Ultrasound Technologist | — | — | $2,251 | $2,025 – $2,359 (by city) | Per week, varies by assignment |
Salaries by Location in South Carolina
Ultrasound tech salaries vary by city and region across South Carolina. Charleston, Columbia, and Camden offer higher wages due to demand and hospital density. In Charleston, sonographers report weekly travel rates up to $2,359, while in Myrtle Beach, average travel pay is closer to $2,025.
Top Locations for High Pay:
- Charleston: $74.61/hour
- Columbia: Competitive, slightly below Charleston
- Camden: Steady growth, increasing demand
- Greenville & Rock Hill: Mid-range salaries with active jobs posted regularly
Key Factors That Influence Salary
Certification, experience, and specialization impact salaries for sonographers in South Carolina.
High-earning factors:
- Certification: ARDMS-certified techs earn 10–20% more
- Specializations: Cardiac, vascular, and OB/GYN sonographers earn higher rates
- Experience: Techs with over 5 years of experience often exceed $80,000 annually
- Facility Type: Large hospitals and trauma centers pay more than outpatient clinics
- Travel Roles: Short-term travel jobs offer weekly pay averaging $2,251
South Carolina vs National Salaries
South Carolina ultrasound techs earn slightly less than the national average. However, the lower cost of living narrows the gap in real income. Some roles, such as diagnostic sonographers, earn 16% above the national average based on certain specialties and locations.
Comparison Highlights:
Job Growth and Demand in South Carolina
Ultrasound tech jobs in South Carolina are growing steadily, driven by aging populations and expanding healthcare systems. Employers in Charleston, Columbia, and Rock Hill are actively hiring, especially for travel and contract positions. Most SC healthcare systems post new ultrasound jobs weekly.
Fast-Growing Employers:
- Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC)
- Prisma Health
- Lexington Medical Center
- Roper St. Francis Healthcare
How to Become an Ultrasound Tech in SC
To become an ultrasound tech in South Carolina, complete an accredited program and earn ARDMS certification.
Basic Requirements:
- Education: Associate degree or certificate in diagnostic medical sonography
- Certification: Most jobs require passing ARDMS exams
- Training: Hands-on clinical hours are part of all accredited programs
- Popular Schools: Midlands Technical College, Trident Technical College
Common Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
Do ultrasound techs in South Carolina receive sign-on bonuses?
Yes. Some employers, like MUSC, offer sign-on bonuses up to $10,000.
How do travel ultrasound tech salaries compare to permanent roles in SC?
Travel techs earn about $2,251 per week, which is often higher than full-time salaries.
Are there big differences in salary between cities?
Yes. Charleston pays up to $2,359 per week, while Myrtle Beach pays about $2,025.
What is the entry-level salary for an Ultrasound Technologist I in SC?
Entry-level starts at $60,915/year, with most new hires earning $70,146 to $90,286.
Are there active jobs for sonographers in South Carolina right now?
Yes. Major hospitals in Columbia, Charleston, and Greenville list active jobs weekly.
How often are ultrasound tech salaries updated in SC?
Salary data is typically updated quarterly by platforms like Salary.com and BLS.
Final Note
South Carolina offers competitive ultrasound tech salaries with strong growth opportunities, especially for certified and specialized sonographers. Whether you prefer permanent roles or travel contracts, the SC job market has many active listings with employers actively hiring across top cities like Charleston and Columbia. Also see our page on ultrasound tech salaries in Georgia.
