How Much Does an Ultrasound Cost? (2026 Guide)
March 10, 2026 · Procedure Costs · 8 min read
Ultrasounds are one of the most commonly ordered diagnostic imaging tests — used for everything from pregnancy monitoring to diagnosing abdominal pain, gallstones, and kidney issues. They're safe, painless, and relatively affordable compared to CT scans or MRIs. But "relatively affordable" can still mean hundreds of dollars out of pocket.
Based on negotiated rate data from over 4,000 facilities, the national median cost is $456 for a pelvic ultrasound (CPT 76856) and $521 for an abdominal ultrasound (CPT 76700). Prices range from as low as $144 to over $1,408.
National Ultrasound Cost Data (2026)
Pelvic Ultrasound (CPT 76856)
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| National Median | $456 |
| National Average | $642 |
| Typical Range (25th–75th percentile) | $250 – $750 |
| Low End (10th percentile) | $144 |
| High End (90th percentile) | $1,235 |
| Facilities Analyzed | 4,043 |
Abdominal Ultrasound (CPT 76700)
| Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| National Median | $521 |
| National Average | $757 |
| Typical Range (25th–75th percentile) | $278 – $886 |
| Low End (10th percentile) | $159 |
| High End (90th percentile) | $1,408 |
| Facilities Analyzed | 4,046 |
Data source: Negotiated rates from hospital price transparency files, analyzed by Taven Health. Prices reflect technical (facility) fees. Professional (radiologist interpretation) fees are typically billed separately.
Compare ultrasound costs at facilities near you →
Cash Pay vs. Insurance Rates
| Ultrasound Type | Insured Median | Cash-Pay Median |
|---|---|---|
| Pelvic (CPT 76856) | $456 | $710 |
| Abdominal (CPT 76700) | $521 | $842 |
Types of Ultrasounds and Their Costs
Costs vary by the type of ultrasound ordered:
| Type | Common Uses | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Abdominal | Gallstones, liver, kidneys, pancreas | $278 – $886 |
| Pelvic | Uterine, ovarian, bladder issues | $250 – $750 |
| OB/Pregnancy | Fetal development, dating | $200 – $800 |
| Thyroid | Thyroid nodules, goiter | $200 – $600 |
| Breast | Breast lumps, supplemental screening | $200 – $700 |
| Echocardiogram | Heart function, valve issues | $500 – $2,500 |
Why Do Ultrasound Costs Vary?
1. Hospital vs. Independent Imaging Center
The biggest factor. Hospital-based imaging departments routinely charge 2–4x more than independent imaging centers for the same ultrasound. A $200 ultrasound at a freestanding center might be $600–$800 at a hospital.
2. Facility Fee vs. Professional Fee
Ultrasound bills typically have two components: the technical fee (for the equipment, room, and sonographer) and the professional fee (for the radiologist who interprets the images). The prices above reflect the facility/technical fee only.
3. Type and Complexity
A "complete" ultrasound costs more than a "limited" one. Adding Doppler (blood flow measurement) also increases the cost.
4. Geographic Location
Prices in high-cost metro areas can be 2–3x higher than in smaller markets.
How to Save on an Ultrasound
1. Go to an Independent Imaging Center
This is the single biggest money-saver. Independent radiology/imaging centers typically charge 50–70% less than hospital-based imaging for identical ultrasounds.
2. Compare Prices
Compare ultrasound costs at facilities near you. Even among imaging centers, prices vary significantly.
3. Ask for the Cash-Pay Rate
Many imaging centers offer competitive cash-pay prices — sometimes lower than what you'd owe after insurance with a high deductible.
4. Check If It's Preventive
Certain ultrasounds (like prenatal dating scans) may be covered as preventive care with no cost-sharing under your plan.
5. Confirm Medical Necessity
Make sure your doctor documents clear medical necessity to avoid insurance denials. The diagnosis code matters as much as the procedure code.
Ultrasound vs. Other Imaging
| Modality | Typical Cost | Radiation? |
|---|---|---|
| Ultrasound | $200 – $900 | No |
| X-ray | $100 – $400 | Yes (minimal) |
| CT Scan | $500 – $3,000 | Yes |
| MRI | $1,000 – $5,000 | No |
Frequently Asked Questions
Cash-pay median prices are $710 (pelvic) and $842 (abdominal). At independent imaging centers, you can often find ultrasounds for $200–$400 cash.
Most ultrasounds take 15–45 minutes depending on the type and what's being examined.
Yes, most facilities require a physician's order. Some direct-to-consumer imaging centers offer self-referred ultrasounds, but insurance won't cover these.
Yes — most insurance plans cover standard prenatal ultrasounds as part of maternity care. The number covered varies by plan (typically 1–3 during a normal pregnancy).
The Bottom Line
Ultrasounds cost a median of $456–$521 (facility fee) for common types, but prices vary enormously — from under $150 to over $1,400. The cheapest option is almost always an independent imaging center rather than a hospital.
Compare ultrasound prices near you to find the best value.