US Average Income By Age

US Average Income by Age

Age plays a major role in how much money people make. This is simply because as you get older, you gain career experience and bring more value to companies. Income tends to peak at ages 45-54. But when are a worker’s “peak earning years,” and what happens after they’re past that period?

Keep reading for insight into the average income by age in the United States.

Key Points

•   Average income increases with age, peaking in the 45-54 age group with a typical average salary of $70,824 per year.

•   Workers aged 55-64 earn less, possibly due to perceived overpayment and hiring of younger employees.

•   Retirement savings are often advisable to start in your 20s.

•   Budgeting and debt reduction can maximize a salary.

•   Automating savings and investing can grow wealth.

Average Salary by Age in the US

Your education, industry, work experience, negotiation skills, and plain luck can all influence how much money you make. To get an idea of whether you’re earning a competitive salary, it can be helpful to know how much other people in the same age group are making.

Here’s a closer look at the average income by age in the U.S. during the second quarter of 2025, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

SOFI COACH℠

Ask SoFi Coach everyday money questions to get

personalized guidance for your financial goals.




Screen images simulated. For illustrative purposes only. RL26-4177503-D

SoFi Coach℠ Chat is a tool designed to help you view and analyze your financial data, get personalized insights, learn about SoFi products, troubleshoot issues, and take certain actions in chat. Coach responses are information for you to consider and not financial advice. Coach responses are based on limited information from your connected accounts and may have inaccuracies. The insights are meant to help you think about your finances and options —they are not advice or recommendations, and they do not guarantee results. Coach may offer you options to explore SoFi products on which SoFi would earn revenue. You are solely responsible for any financial decisions you make. Coach is offered by Social Finance, LLC.

Average Salary for Ages 16-19

The early days of your working life usually aren’t the most lucrative: 16- to 19-year-olds who work full-time make $640 a week or $33,280 a year on average.

Average Salary for Ages 20-24

Salaries start to rise as workers gain experience. Those in the 20-24 age group make an average of $782 a week or an annual salary of $40,664.

This is when many financially savvy professionals start building their 401(k) balance. That’s because the earlier you invest for retirement, the less money you’ll typically have to invest over time. Or, as the saying goes, your time in the market is more important than market timing.

Recommended: Average Savings by Age

Average Salary for Ages 25-34

Salaries begin to jump up once workers reach the 25-34 age group, with an average weekly pay of $1,139 or an annual income of $59,228.

Ideally, employees will put much of their raises and bonuses toward savings rather than impulse spending.

Average Salary for Ages 35-44

For 35- to 44-year-olds, annual salaries are still growing: The average pay is $1,351 per week or $70,252 per year. This is the beginning of what’s commonly referred to as “peak earning years.”

Average Salary for Ages 45-54

While many employees enjoy higher wages into their 50s, others find their salary stagnating. Overall, workers in the 45-54 age group actually see salaries go up a little, with a weekly pay of $1,362 on average. The average annual income in middle age is $70,824.

Recommended: Financial Tips for People in Their 40s

Average Salary for Ages 55-64

Salaries start to drop for workers between 55 and 64, whose average weekly salary is $1,296 for an annual salary of $67,392. What happened to paying for experience? Some companies may believe they can pay younger employees less for the same work and see older workers as overpaid. As a result, 55+ workers are no longer offered the same retention incentives, such as pay raises, regardless of performance.

On the other hand, professionals who are satisfied with their retirement savings may choose to work less or retire early instead of waiting until the average retirement age.

Average Salary for Ages 65 and Older

Once workers reach 65, they are likely shifting to part-time work to stay active during retirement and to earn a little extra retirement income. Some people need more retirement income than others, and Social Security benefits and savings aren’t always enough. This may be why salaries drop to an average of $1,198 for an annual salary of $62,296 per year for those 65 or older.

Tips for Maximizing Your Salary

Now that some light has been shed on the average income by age in the U.S., the following section will address some ways workers can maximize their salary. That can mean finding ways to hold on to what you’re earning or to make it grow.

Create a Budget

If you’ve ever created a spending budget, you know how shocking it can be to see all the ways you fritter away your hard-earned salary on unnecessary purchases. By cutting back on items you don’t really need, from bottled water to forgotten subscriptions, you’ll free up more cash for things such as saving and investing.

Pay Down Debt

What’s even more shocking than the amount you spend on little things such as daily snacks and late-night Ubers? The interest charges and fees that come with debt. The faster you pay off high-interest credit cards, the more you can put toward longer-term goals: an emergency fund, travel, or buying a home.

Make Saving Automatic

One easy way to make saving and investing a priority is to automate it: Set up regular, recurring transfers from your paycheck or checking account. That way, big goals such as a dream wedding and retirement are prioritized before there’s even a chance to spend that money.

Take Advantage of Tax Deductions and Credits

Taxes may be an unavoidable part of life, but there are ways to pay less to Uncle Sam. Whether you hire a tax accountant or use software to file your return, look for opportunities to snag a larger tax refund.

Make Retirement Contributions

Contributing to a retirement savings account is a convenient way to save and invest in one fell swoop. As an added benefit, some employers match a portion of employee contributions. That means if someone isn’t contributing to their employer-sponsored 401(k) plan, they’re leaving free money on the table that helps expand an employee’s net worth.

Recommended: Investing 101 Guide

Open a High-Yield Savings Account

A low-risk way to earn money on savings is by opening a high-yield savings account. This type of savings account tends to offer a higher interest rate than normal savings accounts.

The Takeaway

The average income by age in the U.S. tends to rise as workers gain more experience. Eventually salaries plateau and then drop off. Your peak earning years coincide with middle age, meaning you make the most you ever will in your 40s and 50s. The average salary in the U.S. tops out at $70,824 for ages 45-54.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

With SoFi, you can keep tabs on how your money comes and goes.

FAQ

What does the average 30-year-old make?

The average 30- to 34-year-old makes $1,139 per week or an annual income of $59,228. Workers ages 35-44 can expect to earn more: The average pay is $1,351 per week or $70,252 per year.

What percentage of Americans earns over $100,000 a year?

Estimates vary about how many Americans earn over $100,000 per year. Some studies say about 18% of the population earns that much, while others say over 40% do.

What salary is middle class?

The salary that places you in the middle class varies depending on where you live and the cost of living there. According to one Pew Research study, the median middle-class household (not individual) makes $106,100. However, if you can afford to pay your bills and have money left over for savings and modest indulgences, you’re likely middle class.

At what age do people typically reach their peak earning years?

Workers typically reach their peak earning years during middle age, with average salaries generally highest among those in the 45-54 age group. Factors such as career experience, industry, and education can all influence when someone reaches their highest earning potential.

How can someone increase their income over time?

There are several ways to increase income over the course of a career. This may include developing new skills, negotiating salary increases, and advancing into higher-paying roles.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/Prostock-Studio

SoFi Coach offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery, or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You must confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Tax Information: This article provides general background information only and is not intended to serve as legal or tax advice or as a substitute for legal counsel. You should consult your own attorney and/or tax advisor if you have a question requiring legal or tax advice.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

SORL-Q326-023

Read more
How Much Electrician School Costs and How to Pay for It

Paying for Electrician School and How Much It Costs

Becoming an electrician can lead to a fulfilling, rewarding, and high-paying career. However, electrician school may cost between $1,000 and tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the program.

Paying tuition costs up front may not be possible. To help manage this hefty electrician trade school price tag, there are a few different programs and financing options to consider.

Key Points

• Electrician school costs can range from $1,000 to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the program and institution.

• Typical programs at community colleges prepare students for apprenticeships and careers as electricians, usually taking one to two years to complete.

• Courses in electrician school cover mathematics, electrical code standards, electrical theory, and practical skills such as wiring and safety.

• Hands-on practical experience is a significant component of the training, complementing classroom instruction.

• Financial aid options for electrician school include federal grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal student loans, depending on the school’s eligibility.

How Much Does Electrician School Typically Cost?

A career as an electrician is one of a group of high-paying, no-degree jobs that can prove lucrative. If you decide to enroll in trade school to help you along your path to becoming an electrician, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 to tens of thousands of dollars to complete the program. This might depend on the program you enroll in and the school you attend.

How Long Does Electrician School Take?

Electrician school typically takes four to five years to complete through an apprenticeship program, which combines paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction. Apprenticeships, offered by unions or trade organizations, are the most common path to becoming a licensed electrician.

Preapprenticeship programs or certificate courses at trade schools may offer valuable training, but they don’t lead directly to licensure. The time frame depends on the program and state requirements, but thorough training is essential for success in this field.

What Are Classes Like at Electrician School?

Although each program is different, generally, electrical school guides you through relevant mathematics, standardized electrical code, electrical theory, and fundamental techniques regarding wiring, safety, conduit bending, and other skills.

In addition to in-class knowledge, electrician school often includes hands-on practical application.

Can You Make Money as an Electrician While in School?

It might be challenging to secure paid electrician work if you’re in the middle of electrician school. However, if you’ve been accepted into an electrical apprenticeship program and are attending electrical school on the side, the apprenticeship often involves paid, hands-on learning opportunities and possibly health benefits.

Pros and Cons of Electrician School

If you’re unsure whether enrolling in electrician school is worth it, weigh the advantages and disadvantages of going this route.

thumb_upPros

•   Might be a fast way to get in the door toward an electrical career

•   Sets you apart when you apply for an apprenticeship

•   Might count toward required apprenticeship hours

thumb_downCons

•   The state might still require an apprenticeship program

•   Potentially high-cost and might incur student debt

•   Not an “earn as you learn” option

Financing Electrician School

Although you can choose to pay entirely out of pocket for electrician trade school costs, it’s not always feasible. Fortunately, there are a handful of ways to get your trade education financed — some of which must be repaid, while others don’t need to be paid back.

Financial Aid

Future electricians attending an eligible trade school may be able to qualify for federal student aid, including grants, scholarships, work-study, or federal student loans. Not all trade or vocational schools qualify for federal aid.

To find out whether the program you are considering is eligible, take a look at the Federal School Code Search administered by the U.S. Department of Education. Another option is to check in with the financial aid office at the school.

To apply for federal financial aid, students will need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®).

Grants

Federal grants, such as the Pell Grant, are available to students who are pursuing a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate financial need. Pell Grants typically don’t need to be paid back and offer awards up to $7,395 for the 2026-27 award year.

Recommended: FAFSA vs. Pell Grants

Scholarships

Scholarships are another type of gift aid that doesn’t need to be repaid. They can be found through your state, local government, school, and nonprofit institutions. For example, the American Public Power Association offers lineworker and technical education scholarship awards of $2,000 to chosen recipients.

Employer Sponsoring

If you’re already employed and want to enroll in an electrician school to enhance your job-related skills, ask your employer whether it offers tuition assistance or will sponsor your electrician school costs. Some companies offer this benefit as long as you successfully complete the program and agree to apply your training within the company for a certain number of years.

Federal Student Loans

Through the FAFSA, you can see whether you’re eligible for subsidized or unsubsidized student loans. This type of aid must be paid back, plus interest at a fixed rate.

Private Student Loans

If the above financing sources aren’t an option and you need funds, private student loans may help pay for electrician trade school costs. Private student loans are offered by banks, credit unions, trade schools, and other financial institutions. Be aware that they typically don’t offer the same level of protections as federal student loans, such as extended forbearance or deferment options if you face financial hardship.

Recommended: Guide to Private Student Loans

How to Select an Electrician Training Program

Deciding how you want to pursue an electrician training program depends heavily on the amount of time you’re willing to commit and your preferred learning style. Below is an overview of the program options available.

Apprenticeship

Learning the electrical trade is commonly done through apprenticeship. This option is typically a four- or five-year commitment with a mix of classroom and field training. It lets you learn the hands-on skills and knowledge needed to become an electrician while earning a wage.

Certificate

Certification can take 6-18 months to complete. You can enroll in an electrician certification program through a local community college or trade school. In some states, such as California, an electrical certification might be required to perform work for contractors with a certain license class.

Associate Degree

An associate’s degree can offer more comprehensive education, though it’s not typically a requirement to be an electrician. Associate degrees might be offered through a trade school or community college and can help boost applications for apprenticeship programs.

Bachelor’s Degree

If you’d like to pursue a bachelor’s degree as an electrician in a highly academic setting, a four-year program might make sense for you. Students typically enroll in programs such as electrical technology and learn about regulation, electrical theory, and more.

This option provides flexibility in terms of transferable courses for related industries, such as electrical and/or systems engineering.

Military Training

Another way to obtain electrical school training is through the U.S. Armed Forces. By enlisting as a service member, you’ll first receive basic military training. Afterward, you may receive electrical job training if you meet program requirements.

For example, the U.S. Army offers interior electrician job training for soldiers who complete 10 weeks of basic training and 7 weeks of Advanced Individual Training and earn an Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery (ASVAB) score of 93 in Electronics.

Electrician Job and Income Prospects

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for electricians is positive, with opportunities expected to grow at a much faster-than-average pace of 9% from 2024 to 2034.

The BLS also states that as of 2024, the median pay for electricians was $62,350 per year. Salaries, however, depend on a variety of factors, such as skill certifications, years of experience, and location.

Alternatives to Becoming an Electrician

If, after learning how much electrician trade school costs, you feel it’s not the right profession for you, pursuing another trade or performing a hands-on field job might be of interest. Alternative jobs include being a:

•   Construction laborer

•   Automotive service technician

•   Equipment operator

•   HVAC installer

•   Home inspector

•   Project manager

Recommended: 22 High-Paying Trade Vocational Jobs in 2024

The Takeaway

Electrician school costs can range widely, depending on factors such as the program, location, and more. Paying for electrician school costs can be an incredible investment in your career advancement and in enhancing your technical knowledge, but it’s also a financial commitment.

If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.


Cover up to 100% of school-certified costs including tuition, books, supplies, room and board, and transportation with a private student loan from SoFi.

FAQ

How long does electrician school take?

Electrician school typically takes four to five years to complete, including classroom instruction and hands-on apprenticeship training. Apprenticeships, which combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, are the most common path to becoming a licensed electrician. Alternative programs like certificate courses may take six to 18 months but don’t directly lead to licensure.

How much do the highest-paid electricians make?

Electricians command an average base salary of $62,350 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Master electricians can earn more than $100,000 per year. Where you’re located and your specific specialty can also influence your income potential.

What are the highest-paid trade jobs in the U.S.?

Electricians are among the higher-paid tradespeople in the U.S. Others include licensed practical nurses, ultrasonographers, respiratory therapists, and dental hygienists.


Photo credit: iStock/Davizro

SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Not all repayment options may be available for all loans. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is current as of 3/2/2026 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

SOISL-Q326-010

Read more
woman studying

How to Study for the MCATs

So you want to go to medical school and become a doctor? Then you know that the MCAT, a rigorous test, is likely in your future. Since it’s an important qualifying test for medical school and can be challenging, you likely want to arm yourself with information and prepare well for it.

Here, you’ll learn some of the most important information, such as:

•   What is the MCAT?

•   How to start studying for the MCAT

•   How to pay for the MCAT and medical school

Read on, and hey: You’ve got this!

Key Points

•   The MCAT is a challenging, standardized, multiple-choice exam taken to qualify for medical school admission.

•   A competitive MCAT score is 514 or above, which results in a 70% acceptance rate to medical school.

•   Preparing for the MCAT is important. The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) offers free and paid practice tests for MCAT preparation.

•   The registration fee for the MCAT is $335, with extra fees for changes or late registration.

•   The cost of attending medical school is on the rise. The average debt for medical school graduates is $216,659.

What Are the MCATs?

MCAT stands for Medical College Admission Test® (MCAT®). The test, which the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) creates and administers every year, is multiple choice and standardized. Some important facts include:

•   Medical schools have been utilizing it for more than 90 years to determine which students should gain admission.

•   Most medical schools in the United States and many in Canada will require that students take the MCAT. Every year, more than 85,000 prospective medical school students take it.

•   There are four sections to the MCAT:

◦   Critical analysis and reasoning skills

◦   Biological and biochemical functions of living systems

◦   Chemical and physical foundations of biological systems

◦   Psychological, social, and biological foundations of behavior

•   Students will receive five scores: one for each section and then one total score.

◦   In each section, they can get a score ranging from 118 to 132, and the total score ranges from 472 to 528.

◦   Generally, a competitive MCAT score is a total of 514 or above, which results in a 70% acceptance rate to medical school.

The average MCAT score for all medical school applicants is currently 500.5. Usually, students will receive scores 30 to 35 days after they take the exam.

Keep in mind that MCAT scores, while important, are just one part of a medical school application. Medical schools often review other factors, including things such as:

•   Your GPA

•   Undergraduate coursework

•   Experience related to the medical field, including research and volunteer work

•   Letters of recommendation

•   Extracurricular activities

•   Personal statement

Because of this array of inputs, if a student has a high GPA from a competitive undergraduate school, for instance, and they don’t score very high on the MCATs, they may still have a chance of getting into a medical school.

Getting a competitive score on the MCAT can give applicants an edge, especially when applying to ultra-competitive medical schools. One way students can help improve their chances of getting a desirable score on the MCAT is to learn how to study for the unique demands of this test.

💡 Quick Tip: Ready to refinance your student loan? You could save thousands.

Studying for the MCAT

One of the first things a student can do when determining how to prepare for the MCAT is to create a study plan. A well-crafted study plan will organize what materials the student should review in order to prepare for the exam.

That said, there’s no one best way to prep for the MCAT. Consider the following options. You might use one or a variety of techniques.

The AAMC Website

One great place to get started is the AAMC website, which provides an in-depth outline of the test on their website. Obviously, the same questions students will see on the actual exam won’t be listed, but sample questions that are similar to the real questions are. Students may find helpful tutorials and other content as well.

Online Resources

There are a variety of other online resources students can explore to help them review. For example, the AAMC currently recommends students take a look at Khan Academy’s MCAT Video Collection, where there are more than 1,000 videos as well as thousands of questions that students can use to review.

There are also MCAT study apps, such as MCAT Prep by MedSchoolCoach and MCAT Prep by Magoosh, that students can download and use to study.

Books, Textbooks, and Class Resources

How else to prep for the MCAT? It may also help to buy or borrow books from the library that go into detail on the MCAT. One word of advice: Students should just make sure that the books they’re reading are up to date. Information (and the MCAT) get refreshed often. You don’t want to be studying yesterday’s medical data.

It can also be helpful to review class notes and study guides from courses you’ve taken that are related to MCAT materials. Some schools have study groups and other academic support resources for students who are studying for the MCAT. If you’re currently enrolled in classes, take a look to see what might be offered at your campus. You might luck out with some great ways to learn more.

Practice Tests

AAMC offers official sample MCAT practice exams online. You can access two for free and others for a cost of $35 each. Taking practice tests can help you familiarize yourself with the exam. Taking practice tests can also be important in understanding the timing of each section.

Study Groups and Tutors

Here are other ideas for how to start studying for the MCAT:

•   Getting an MCAT tutor who has taken the test could also be helpful. A tutor will generally be able to provide guidance on what kind of questions a student can expect. Plus, they will likely have hands-on experience with effective methods and tips for studying.

If you decide that how to prep for the MCAT should involve a tutor, ask friends and fellow students who have taken the MCAT recently for recommendations. There are also test preparation companies that provide resources for students to find tutors online or in person. Do check reviews and references.

•   Study groups can also be a tool to help students who are preparing for the MCAT. Students can find others who are on the same path and work together to build proficiency. If possible, find a group where each student has a different strength and weakness. This can maximize students learning from one another.

•   It may help to use a shared calendar or another tool to make sure everyone is on the same page for dates, times, and locations for when the study group will meet.

•   Want to find a study group as part of how to prepare for the MCATs? Search engines, professors’ recommendations, school bulletin boards/online groups, and fellow students are good bets.

💡 Quick Tip: Refinancing could be a great choice for working graduates who have higher-interest graduate PLUS loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and/or private loans.

Important Dates to Keep in Mind

Now that you know the ins and outs of preparing for the MCAT, what about taking the test itself? Students can take the MCAT numerous times throughout the year, from January through September. There are hundreds of test locations around the U.S. and Canada as well as select locations around the globe.

If your preferred MCAT test date or location is not available, you can sign up for email notifications to see if it becomes available down the line.

Recommended: Refinancing Student Loans During Medical School

Paying for the MCATs and Medical School

As you explore the best way to prepare for the MCAT and plan your medical school journey, you’ll likely be keeping costs in mind and thinking about ways to pay for college. Here are details to note.

Paying for the MCATs

The registration fee for the MCAT exam is $335, and that includes distribution of scores. There may be additional fees for changes to a registration, a late registration, and for taking the test at international sites.

The AAMC does offer a Fee Assistance Program to students who are struggling to pay for the test and/or medical school applications. To be eligible for the Fee Assistance Program, students must meet the following eligibility requirements:

•   Have a U.S.-based home address

•   Meet specific income guidelines for their family size

Note that the Fee Assistance Program will review financial information of the student and the student’s parents, even if the student is considered independent.

Keep in mind that along with the MCAT fee, applying to medical school can be quite expensive. Most medical schools in the U.S. utilize the AAMC’s American Medical College Application Service® (AMCAS®). To apply to medical schools, students will generally pay a first-time application fee of $180, as well as $48 for each additional school.

Some medical schools may require a secondary application, and those fees range depending on the school. Students may also need additional money to travel to and tour schools.

Medical School Costs

The application process is just one portion of the expense of med school. After being accepted, there’s the cost of tuition, books, and more, and these medical school costs have been rising steeply lately:

•   The average cost per year of medical school at a public school is $43,016, which includes tuition, fees, and insurance.

•   The average cost per year at a private medical school is $68,342. The average debt for medical school graduates is currently $216,659. Debt after medical school can go even higher when you add in undergraduate loans.

Obviously, that’s a significant number and can make you wonder how to pay for medical school. First, remember that medical school is a path to a rewarding and challenging career, as well as potentially a lucrative one. The average medical school graduate earns more than $158,000, with high earners enjoying salaries above the $400,000 mark, according to ZipRecruiter data.

In addition, be sure to search for scholarships and grants you might be eligible for. This type of gift money generally doesn’t need to be repaid.

The Takeaway

Studying for and paying for the MCAT and handling medical school expenses can be a challenge. SoFi understands this, which is why it offers students private student loans and the opportunity to refinance their current student loans.

Keep in mind, however, that if you refinance with an extended term, you may pay more interest over the life of the loan. Also note that refinancing federal student loans means forfeiting their benefits and protections, so it may not be the right choice for everyone.

Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.

With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.

FAQ

How many times can I take the MCAT?

You may take the MCAT no more than three times in a testing year and no more than four times over two consecutive testing years. Effective April 2015, you may take the MCAT no more than seven times during your lifetime.

Are there programs to help pay for the MCAT?

The Association of American Medical Colleges offers a Fee Assistance Program than can help with the costs of the exam. Eligibility requirements include having a U.S.-based address and meeting income guidelines.

What’s the best way to prepare for the MCAT?

Practice tests (both free and purchased) are available on the Association of American Medical Colleges’ website. Study groups, apps, online resources, and tutoring can also help you boost your medical knowledge ahead of the exam.


SoFi Private Student Loans
Please borrow responsibly. SoFi Private Student loans are not a substitute for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. We encourage you to evaluate all your federal student aid options before you consider any private loans, including ours. Read our FAQs.

Terms and conditions apply. SOFI RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MODIFY OR DISCONTINUE PRODUCTS AND BENEFITS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. SoFi Private Student loans are subject to program terms and restrictions, such as completion of a loan application and self-certification form, verification of application information, the student's at least half-time enrollment in a degree program at a SoFi-participating school, and, if applicable, a co-signer. In addition, borrowers must be U.S. citizens or other eligible status, be residing in the U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, or American Samoa, and must meet SoFi’s underwriting requirements, including verification of sufficient income to support your ability to repay. Not all repayment options may be available for all loans. Minimum loan amount is $1,000. See SoFi.com/eligibility for more information. Lowest rates reserved for the most creditworthy borrowers. SoFi reserves the right to modify eligibility criteria at any time. This information is current as of 3/2/2026 and is subject to change. SoFi Private Student loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLS #696891. (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org).

SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.


Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Third Party Trademarks: Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

External Websites: The information and analysis provided through hyperlinks to third-party websites, while believed to be accurate, cannot be guaranteed by SoFi. Links are provided for informational purposes and should not be viewed as an endorsement.

SOSLR-Q326-005

Read more
How To Counter a Salary Offer (Sample Emails)

How to Counter a Salary Offer (Sample Emails)

Salary negotiations can be one of the most stressful parts of the hiring process. You don’t want to offend your new employer, but you don’t want to get shortchanged either. Making an appropriate counter offer requires a little skill and finesse to communicate your salary needs in a professional way.

That’s where knowing how to write a salary counter offer email comes in. A good counteroffer email can help you build a stronger case for why you deserve a higher salary.

Key Points

•   When countering a salary offer via email, be professional and polite.

•   Express gratitude for the offer, and highlight your qualifications and value.

•   Provide a specific counter offer with a reasonable salary range based on research and market value.

•   Justify your counter offer by emphasizing your skills, experience, and contributions.

•   Close the email by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and willingness to negotiate.

What Is a Counter Offer?

A counter offer is your response to the hiring company’s original salary offer. When you make a counter offer, you’re asking the company to reconsider its initial offer and bump the number. For example, if a company offers you a starting salary of $80,000, you might counter that with $85,000 or $90,000.

Making a counter offer is not uncommon, and some companies expect new hires to do a little bargaining for higher pay. There’s no guarantee that a counter offer will be accepted, but it’s still worth making one if you believe that you can get a better deal.

Writing a counter offer email can be a great way to communicate what you’re hoping to get. If you’re getting hired at your first job, you might not know how to write a counter offer salary email. The good news is that it’s not as complicated as you might think.

SOFI COACH℠

Ask SoFi Coach everyday money questions to get

personalized guidance for your financial goals.




Screen images simulated. For illustrative purposes only. RL26-4177503-D

SoFi Coach℠ Chat is a tool designed to help you view and analyze your financial data, get personalized insights, learn about SoFi products, troubleshoot issues, and take certain actions in chat. Coach responses are information for you to consider and not financial advice. Coach responses are based on limited information from your connected accounts and may have inaccuracies. The insights are meant to help you think about your finances and options —they are not advice or recommendations, and they do not guarantee results. Coach may offer you options to explore SoFi products on which SoFi would earn revenue. You are solely responsible for any financial decisions you make. Coach is offered by Social Finance, LLC.

When to Counter a Salary Offer

There are different reasons that a job candidate might decide to make a salary counter offer. Here are some of the most common scenarios when a counter offer can be appropriate:

•   The company is offering a salary that’s below average for the industry.

•   You believe that your skills and/or experience are sufficient to command a higher salary.

•   The salary isn’t enough to meet your financial needs.

•   You’ve received a higher offer from a competing company.

If you’re negotiating salary for your first job, it’s important to find out what is competitive pay for this type of job and for someone with your experience.

Entry-level salaries are naturally lower than salaries for people with more experience or education. That doesn’t mean, however, that you should automatically accept a lower salary for an entry-level position if similar companies are paying more.

Researching pay ranges for the type of job you’re accepting can help you determine the high and low figures for a salary negotiation. It may also be helpful to know what trades make the most money and how much people earn at different levels within that trade or sector.

Recommended: Refinance Your Student Loans

Keys to Asking for More Salary

There’s some groundwork that goes into negotiating higher pay, either as a new hire or an employee seeking a raise. Here are some of the most important things to consider when asking for more pay:

•   Research average salaries across your industry for employees with skills or experience equivalent to yours.

•   Know what you bring to the table, and be prepared to back that up with examples.

•   Be confident in your approach.

•   Be realistic and understand what the company can reasonably afford to offer you.

Making your request for a salary increase in writing is also important, as it gives you an opportunity to outline in detail your reasoning for a pay boost. That’s where knowing how to write counter offer salary email messages comes in handy.

Should You Negotiate Your Job Offer (Even if It’s Already Pretty Good)?

Negotiating salary or other benefits isn’t something you necessarily have to do. And it’s possible that you might feel a little awkward asking your new employer for more money right off the bat. But it may still be worth negotiating certain aspects of your pay or benefits if you think there’s some wiggle room.

For example, you might be willing to accept a lower offer in exchange for stock if you think the company’s value is only going to rise in the future. One of the advantages of buying company stock through your employer is that you may be able to get it at a discounted price. Tuition repayment assistance is something else that may be worth negotiating if you’re starting your career with student loans in tow. Employers are increasingly offering help with student loan debt and tuition to attract and retain talented employees. That type of benefit may be well worth negotiating if your company is open to the idea.

A signing bonus can also help balance out a lower salary. If the bonus is particularly lucrative, that might be a tempting reason to skip salary negotiations. Of course, you’ll want to brush up on the basics of how to ask for a signing bonus before you start negotiating.

Should You Negotiate Your Salary Through Email or a Phone Call?

If you’re interested in attempting to wrangle a higher salary from your employer, choose your approach carefully. Asking for a salary increase over the phone has its pros and cons. Your employer might feel like they’ve been put on the spot. Or you might be so nervous that you stumble over your words and don’t communicate your request clearly.

Putting your request in writing can take the pressure off both sides. It may be easier for you to explain why you feel you deserve a higher salary in writing, and you can take your time with writing your email. You can expand on how you believe you’ll be able to help the company and why making a bigger investment in your salary is justified. You can also use your email to compare the salary offer to industry averages in order to underscore your case.

An email also gives your employer a chance to review your arguments and make a decision without feeling rushed. And should they decide to counter your counter offer, they may prefer sending it back to you in email format so there’s a paper trail of all salary discussions.

Steps to Making a Salary Counter Offer

Countering an employer’s salary offer can be nerve-racking, so it’s wise to have a plan or strategy going in. We’ve put together a helpful checklist for what to do when entering salary negotiations.

Research Comparable Salaries

As mentioned, it’s important to know what the average pay is for the industry and type of job you’re accepting. You don’t want to make a counteroffer that’s too far outside the norm of what employees with your same skill set and level of experience are making, as that can cause the employer to balk.

Wage data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics is a good place to start your research. You can also check salaries on sites such as Payscale.com or Salary.com to see what kind of entry-level pay competitive companies are offering.

Review the Benefits Package

Before negotiating salary, it’s helpful to look at everything an employer is offering. That might include things such as subsidized health insurance, a solid retirement plan, paid time off, stock options, tuition assistance, or a remote work option. Weighing the value of those benefits against salary can help you decide if it’s worth negotiating your pay.

If you’re offered great benefits but a lower salary, getting a second job can help bridge the gap. You may already have experience with making money on the side if you’ve ever held any jobs that pay for college, such as babysitting, dog-walking, or doing gig work.

Know Your Value

A little self-awareness goes a long way. When you’re applying for your first job, you may not have a lot of professional experience under your belt yet. Instead, you can focus more on your college accomplishments, skills, personality traits, and other qualities that make you an attractive candidate for the job.

Take Time to Craft Your Counter Offer

The next step is the most important, because you need to make sure you’re wording your counter offer salary email carefully to convey what you want in a respectful way. You’ll want to start your email with a polite introduction and state your request briefly at the beginning. Then, go into more detail explaining why you believe your counter offer is appropriate, and close the letter politely. It’s also important to verify to whom you should send the email to ensure it gets to the right place.

Negotiate With Your Employer

Once your employer receives your salary counter offer email, they’ll review it and then respond. The immediate response may be no, at which point you’ll have to decide if you want to continue attempting to negotiate. If the employer is willing to negotiate, you can then begin salary discussions to see if you can reach an agreement that suits you both. Being willing to compromise here is important, as coming on too strongly could cause the employer to rescind their offer and hire someone else.

Make Your Final Decisions

Once you’ve completed salary negotiations, your employer may give you a little more time to make up your mind. At this point, you’ll have to decide whether to accept their final salary offer or move on to another job. Hold onto the offer email, as it can serve as proof of income for student loans and apartment applications.

You may want to review your finances before deciding if the salary is acceptable. Using a free budget app can help you get a better sense of what kind of income you need to cover your spending.

If you decide to decline, you’ll want to do so politely. Burning bridges is a bad idea, in case you later apply for a position with the same company.

Recommended: Does Net Worth Include Home Equity?

Salary Counter Offer Email (Sample Templates)

If you’ve never attempted to write a counter offer before, you may not know what your letter should include. To make things easier, here are guides for how to write a counter offer email for salary in different situations.

Requesting Additional Compensation (Sample Email)

Dear [Hiring Manager],

Thank you for extending an offer at [company name] for the position of [title]. This is a very exciting opportunity, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to make a positive contribution to the team.

I am hoping there is room to negotiate the base salary for the role. According to my research, the industry average for this position is [salary range] for someone with experience and skills comparable to mine. I believe that a salary closer to [$$$] would be more appropriate, given my background and the requirements the role entails.

Please advise as to whether you’re open to discussing this at your earliest convenience.

Thank you, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Responding to a Lowball Offer (Sample Email)

Dear [Hiring Manager],

Thank you for extending an offer at [company name] for the position of [title]. This is a very exciting opportunity, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to make a positive contribution to the team.

I am hoping there is room to negotiate the base salary for the role, as it seems to be lower than the average salary typically offered for this type of position. According to my research, the industry average for this position is [salary range] for someone with experience and skills comparable to mine. I believe that a salary closer to [$$$] would be more appropriate, given my background and the requirements the role entails.

Please advise as to whether you’re open to discussing this at your earliest convenience.

Thank you, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Leveraging a Competitor Offer (Sample Email)

Dear [Hiring Manager],

Thank you for extending an offer at [company name] for the position of [title]. This is a very exciting opportunity, and I’m confident that I’ll be able to make a positive contribution to the team.

I am hoping there is room to negotiate the base salary for the role, as I’m currently considering an offer from another company. They’re offering a base salary of [$$$] along with a competitive benefits package that includes [list any benefits your recipient’s company does not offer].

I’m very interested in accepting the offer to work at [company name] if you’d be able to [match or increase] the base salary. Please advise as to whether you’re open to discussing this at your earliest convenience.

Thank you, and I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
[Your name]

Accepting the Offer (Sample Email)

Dear [Hiring Manager],

I’m pleased to accept the offer for the position of [position name] with [company name] that was extended on [date]. I’m looking forward to working with the team, and I appreciate the opportunity to negotiate a compensation and benefits package that is agreeable to all parties involved.

Per our negotiations, I understand that my starting salary will be [$$$] and that my benefits package will include [list of benefits]. I look forward to beginning work on [date].

Many thanks,
[Your name]

Rejecting the Offer (Sample Email)

Dear [Hiring Manager],

Thank you for extending an offer of employment at [company name]. I’ve enjoyed getting to know you throughout the hiring process, and I appreciate your willingness to consider my request for salary negotiation.

At this time, I must respectfully decline the position. I thank you again for the opportunity to discuss the job, and I regret that we were unable to reach a compromise suitable to all parties involved.

I do hope that you’ll find a suitable candidate for the position.

Kind regards,
[Your name]

The Takeaway

It’s natural to want to be paid what you’re worth, and negotiating your salary may be necessary to get what you want when accepting a job offer. You’ll want to research competitive salaries for your industry and type of job and also consider the full benefits package. In email communications with your potential employer, it’s important to always be polite, professional, concise, and confident.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

See exactly how your money comes and goes at a glance.

FAQ

How do you politely negotiate salary via email?

Politely negotiating salary via email comes down to using respectful language and clearly explaining your needs and expectations. You want to state your case clearly and simply, and then allow your employer time to form a response.

How do you politely counter a salary offer?

Countering a salary offer politely means making your case for better pay firmly but respectfully. You want to ensure that you’re directing your counter offer to the right person and explaining your reasoning behind asking for higher pay.

How do you negotiate salary after receiving a job offer?

Once you receive a job offer, you can review the terms and draft a short email to ask if the employer is willing to consider salary negotiations. You then have to wait for their response to see if they’re open to negotiating. If they are, you can make your salary counter offer.


About the author

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake

Rebecca Lake has been a finance writer for nearly a decade, specializing in personal finance, investing, and small business. She is a contributor at Forbes Advisor, SmartAsset, Investopedia, The Balance, MyBankTracker, MoneyRates and CreditCards.com. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/ibnjaafar

SoFi Coach offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery, or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You must confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.

SORL-Q226-036

Read more

How Much Does a Sonographer Make a Year?

The average annual pay for a sonographer is $97,240 for the most recent year studied, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Working as a sonographer is a great way to enter the medical field without having to pursue an expensive advanced degree. Typically, only an associate degree is needed to work as a sonographer, which can be obtained quickly and affordably.

Read on to learn more about how much a sonographer can earn and what it’s like to work as this kind of professional.

SOFI COACH℠

Ask SoFi Coach that question by 9/15/26

for a chance to win $10,000.




*NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open only to legal residents of the 50 US/DC, 18+. Void where prohibited by law. Sweepstakes ends at 11:59 p.m. ET on 9/15/26. Subject to Official Rules, including free entry method, prizes, limits, and odds: click here. Sponsor: Social Finance, LLC ("SoFi") 234 1st Street, San Francisco, CA 94105. RL26-4177503-H

SoFi Coach℠ Chat is a tool designed to help you view and analyze your financial data, get personalized insights, learn about SoFi products, troubleshoot issues, and take certain actions in chat. Coach responses are information for you to consider and not financial advice. Coach responses are based on limited information from your connected accounts and may have inaccuracies. The insights are meant to help you think about your finances and options —they are not advice or recommendations, and they do not guarantee results. Coach may offer you options to explore SoFi products on which SoFi would earn revenue. You are solely responsible for any financial decisions you make. Coach is offered by Social Finance, LLC.

Key Points

•   Diagnostic medical sonographers use ultrasound technology to create images of organs and tissues inside the body.

•   Experience level, location, and employer type can influence a sonographer’s salary.

•   Full-time sonographers earn an average annual salary of $97,240, while part-time sonographers earn around $46.75 per hour.

•   The typical level of education required for sonography is an associate degree, though many employers and some states also require certification or licensure.

•   Sonographers avoid the expenses of medical school but may be required to work long hours, including nights and weekends.

What Are Sonographers?

A sonographer — also known as a diagnostic medical sonographer — uses sonography technology and tools to create images typically known as ultrasounds or sonograms. These images can give us a detailed look at organs and tissues within the body or at embryos and fetuses. There are many different types of sonographers who specialize in distinct areas of medicine, such as:

•   Abdominal sonographers

•   Breast sonographers

•   Cardiac sonographers (echocardiographers)

•   Musculoskeletal sonographers

•   Pediatric sonographers

•   Obstetric and gynecologic sonographers

•   Vascular technologists (vascular sonographers)

As briefly mentioned above, training for this career usually doesn’t involve medical school and its cost. Instead, diagnostic medical sonographers may obtain a bachelor’s degree, an associate degree, or perhaps a vocational school degree or hospital training program certificate. Some may be trained in the Armed Forces.

It’s also worth noting that working as a sonographer will likely involve a high degree of patient interaction. For this reason, it may not be a good job for introverts.💡 Quick Tip: Online tools make tracking your spending a breeze: You can easily set up budgets, then get instant updates on your progress, spot upcoming bills, analyze your spending habits, and more.

How Much Do Starting Sonographers Make a Year?

Entry-level sonographers should expect their salary to be on the lower side until they gain more experience. The lowest 10% of earners make less than $67,820 per year.

However, the top 10% of earners working as sonographers make more than $129,370, meaning this is a career path that can lead to a job that pays $100,000 a year.

In addition to experience level, other aspects that can lead to competitive pay are your geographical location (big city vs. rural community) and whether the employer is a major hospital network, say, or a small, independent medical office.

Recommended: What Trade Earns the Most Money?

What Is the Average Salary for a Sonographer?

Those who work full-time as a sonographer can expect to earn an average annual salary of $97,240. However, some sonographers choose to work part-time and are paid by the hour. In terms of how much a sonographer makes an hour, the average hourly pay for sonography work is $46.75.

Many factors can influence how much a sonographer earns, and the state they work in is a major one. The following table illustrates how average sonographer salaries can vary significantly by state, with earnings shown from highest to lowest.

What is the Average Sonographer Salary by State for 2026?

State Annual Salary Monthly Pay Weekly Pay Hourly Wage
Washington $124,668 $10,389 $2,397 $59.94
New York $120,424 $10,035 $2,315 $57.90
Massachusetts $120,213 $10,017 $2,311 $57.79
Alaska $118,543 $9,878 $2,279 $56.99
Vermont $117,036 $9,753 $2,250 $56.27
North Dakota $116,466 $9,705 $2,239 $55.99
Oregon $116,379 $9,698 $2,238 $55.95
Colorado $115,744 $9,645 $2,225 $55.65
Hawaii $114,361 $9,530 $2,199 $54.98
Nevada $112,088 $9,340 $2,155 $53.89
New Jersey $111,750 $9,312 $2,149 $53.73
Wisconsin $111,103 $9,258 $2,136 $53.41
Pennsylvania $110,337 $9,194 $2,121 $53.05
Delaware $110,168 $9,180 $2,118 $52.97
South Dakota $110,073 $9,172 $2,116 $52.92
Virginia $109,129 $9,094 $2,098 $52.47
California $108,632 $9,052 $2,089 $52.23
Minnesota $107,807 $8,983 $2,073 $51.83
Rhode Island $107,796 $8,983 $2,073 $51.83
New Hampshire $107,047 $8,920 $2,058 $51.46
Maryland $106,830 $8,902 $2,054 $51.36
New Mexico $106,669 $8,889 $2,051 $51.28
Illinois $106,664 $8,888 $2,051 $51.28
Maine $106,573 $8,881 $2,049 $51.24
Wyoming $105,805 $8,817 $2,034 $50.87
Nebraska $104,949 $8,745 $2,018 $50.46
Indiana $104,742 $8,728 $2,014 $50.36
Connecticut $104,711 $8,725 $2,013 $50.34
Ohio $104,646 $8,720 $2,012 $50.31
Mississippi $104,247 $8,687 $2,004 $50.12
Idaho $103,567 $8,630 $1,991 $49.79
Iowa $103,388 $8,615 $1,988 $49.71
Missouri $103,249 $8,604 $1,985 $49.64
Arizona $102,576 $8,548 $1,972 $49.32
Texas $102,550 $8,545 $1,972 $49.30
South Carolina $102,143 $8,511 $1,964 $49.11
Oklahoma $101,634 $8,469 $1,954 $48.86
Montana $101,030 $8,419 $1,942 $48.57
Utah $100,207 $8,350 $1,927 $48.18
North Carolina $100,035 $8,336 $1,923 $48.09
Tennessee $99,904 $8,325 $1,921 $48.03
Alabama $99,769 $8,314 $1,918 $47.97
Kansas $98,169 $8,180 $1,887 $47.20
Michigan $95,939 $7,994 $1,844 $46.12
Kentucky $95,601 $7,966 $1,838 $45.96
Louisiana $94,126 $7,843 $1,810 $45.25
Georgia $92,944 $7,745 $1,787 $44.68
Arkansas $91,020 $7,585 $1,750 $43.76
West Virginia $85,215 $7,101 $1,638 $40.97
Florida $82,257 $6,854 $1,581 $39.55

Source: ZipRecruiter

Sonographer Job Considerations for Pay and Benefits

If a sonographer chooses to work part-time, they may not gain access to the same suite of valuable employee benefits that full-time sonographers typically earn. While employee benefits can vary by employer, full-time sonographers can generally expect to receive health care coverage, paid time off, and retirement plans as a part of their overall compensation package.💡 Quick Tip: Income, expenses, and life circumstances can change. Consider reviewing your budget a few times a year and making any adjustments if needed.

Pros and Cons of Sonographer Salary

One of the biggest pros associated with a sonographer’s salary is that they don’t have to take on expensive medical school debt — which can really eat into a worker’s monthly budget. An associate degree or a postsecondary certificate may be required, but it will cost less than pursuing other degree requirements commonly found in the medical field.

Regarding cons, some may find that the salary doesn’t outweigh the hardships of the job. Many sonographers work nights and weekends and are on their feet for long periods of time.

Recommended: Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage

The Takeaway

Sonographers currently earn an average of $97,240 per year. They have a very valuable medical-service skill set, and demand for that skill set is growing. It’s anticipated that job openings for this role will grow by 13% from 2024 to 2034, which is above the national average rate. As they navigate their careers, sonographers will likely want to make progress in their financial lives with smart budgeting and saving.

Take control of your finances with SoFi. With our financial insights and credit score monitoring tools, you can view all of your accounts in one convenient dashboard. From there, you can see your various balances, spending breakdowns, and credit score. Plus you can easily set up budgets and discover valuable financial insights — all at no cost.

SoFi helps you stay on top of your finances.

FAQ

Can you make 100k a year as a sonographer?

It is possible to earn $100,000 or more each year as a sonographer. On average, sonographers in the state of Washington earn $124,668 per year. Where someone lives, how many years of experience they have, and their specialty can all impact how much they earn.

Do people like being a sonographer?

Working as a sonographer is a great fit for anyone who finds the work interesting and who enjoys patient interaction. Because this role requires so much patient care throughout the day, it’s not the best fit for those who are antisocial.

Is it hard to get hired as a sonographer?

Around 5,800 openings for diagnostic medical sonographers are anticipated to be available each year. Because of this high demand, if someone has the right education and qualifications, they should be able to find work as a sonographer.

How many years will it take to become a sonographer?

You can typically train to become a sonographer via a two-year associate degree. After graduation, you will likely obtain certification, which is required by most employers and many states, and your state might also require you to be licensed. Obtaining certification or licensure can add time to your training.

Do radiology tech or sonographer jobs pay more?

Typically, diagnostic medical sonographers earn a bit more than radiology technologists. While the average annual pay for radiology techs is $83,840, sonographers earn around $97,240.


About the author

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco

Jacqueline DeMarco is a freelance writer who specializes in financial topics. Her first job out of college was in the financial industry, and it was there she gained a passion for helping others understand tricky financial topics. Read full bio.


Photo credit: iStock/dusanpetkovic

SoFi Coach offers users the ability to connect both SoFi accounts and external accounts using Plaid, Inc.’s service. When you use the service to connect an account, you authorize SoFi to obtain account information from any external accounts as set forth in SoFi’s Terms of Use. Based on your consent SoFi will also automatically provide some financial data received from the credit bureau for your visibility, without the need of you connecting additional accounts. SoFi assumes no responsibility for the timeliness, accuracy, deletion, non-delivery, or failure to store any user data, loss of user data, communications, or personalization settings. You must confirm the accuracy of Plaid data through sources independent of SoFi. The credit score is a VantageScore® based on TransUnion® (the “Processing Agent”) data.

*Terms and conditions apply. This offer is only available to new SoFi users without existing SoFi accounts. It is non-transferable. One offer per person. To receive the rewards points offer, you must successfully complete setting up Credit Score Monitoring. Rewards points may only be redeemed towards active SoFi accounts, such as your SoFi Checking or Savings account, subject to program terms that may be found here: SoFi Member Rewards Terms and Conditions. SoFi reserves the right to modify or discontinue this offer at any time without notice.

Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.

Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.

SORL-Q226-029

Read more
TLS 1.2 Encrypted
Equal Housing Lender