The average ultrasound cost in Los Angeles in 2025–2026 ranges from $180 to $600 per scan, depending on the type of ultrasound, location, and whether you have insurance. Common procedures such as abdominal or pelvic ultrasounds typically cost $200–$350, while specialized scans like pregnancy or Doppler ultrasounds can reach $500 or more. Hospital-based imaging centers tend to charge higher fees compared to independent diagnostic clinics. Patients without insurance can find affordable options through community clinics or mobile imaging services across Los Angeles County.
Ultrasound cost in Los Angeles ranges from $180–$600 in 2025–2026. Learn about pregnancy, abdominal, and Doppler ultrasound prices, insurance coverage, and borough-wise imaging costs.
Average Ultrasound Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Ultrasound prices in Los Angeles depend on the body area examined, the type of medical facility, and whether contrast or Doppler imaging is required. Outpatient clinics are generally cheaper than hospital imaging departments.
• Standard abdominal ultrasound: $200–$350 on average.
• Pelvic ultrasound: $220–$400, often used for reproductive health.
• Pregnancy ultrasound: $250–$500 depending on trimester and scan type.
• Thyroid ultrasound: $180–$300 for diagnostic neck scans.
• Doppler ultrasound: $350–$600 for blood flow and vascular imaging.
Types of Ultrasounds and Their Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Ultrasound costs vary significantly by procedure type. Advanced or specialized imaging often includes radiologist interpretation fees, which increase total costs.
• 2D ultrasound: Basic grayscale scan costing $180–$300.
• 3D/4D ultrasound: $300–$500, often used for pregnancy visualization.
• Abdominal ultrasound: $200–$350 for internal organ evaluation.
• Pelvic ultrasound: $220–$400 for bladder, uterus, and ovary imaging.
• Vascular or Doppler ultrasound: $350–$600 for vein or artery assessment.
Insurance Coverage for Ultrasounds in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Most insurance plans in California cover medically necessary ultrasounds. However, the amount you pay depends on your deductible, copay, and whether the provider is in-network.
• With insurance: $30–$100 copay on average for standard procedures.
• Without insurance: $180–$600 depending on scan type and location.
• Medicaid and Medi-Cal: Cover most diagnostic ultrasounds at approved facilities.
• Referral requirement: Many plans require a doctor’s referral before coverage.
• Out-of-pocket discounts: Clinics may offer 10–30% savings for direct payment.
Area-Wise Ultrasound Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Ultrasound prices in Los Angeles vary across neighborhoods depending on clinic type, patient volume, and facility accreditation.
• Downtown Los Angeles: $250–$450 — moderate prices with quick appointment availability.
• Hollywood / West Hollywood: $300–$500 — higher rates for private imaging centers.
• Beverly Hills: $350–$600 — premium diagnostic facilities with advanced imaging equipment.
• Santa Monica: $300–$520 — includes coastal diagnostic labs and prenatal specialists.
• San Fernando Valley: $200–$350 — affordable community imaging clinics.
• South Los Angeles: $180–$300 — budget-friendly healthcare centers and public hospitals.
• Pasadena / Glendale: $250–$400 — balanced costs with access to major medical groups.
Factors Affecting Ultrasound Cost in Los Angeles
Several factors determine how much an ultrasound will cost in Los Angeles. Knowing these helps patients budget better and choose affordable facilities.
• Type of ultrasound: Complex or color Doppler imaging costs more than standard scans.
• Clinic type: Private clinics and hospitals charge more than diagnostic centers.
• Radiologist fees: Interpretation charges are typically $50–$100 extra.
• Insurance status: Out-of-network or uninsured patients pay higher rates.
• Urgency and scheduling: Same-day or after-hours scans may include surcharges.
Tips to Save on Ultrasound Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Los Angeles offers multiple ways to save on ultrasound expenses without sacrificing care quality.
• Compare clinics: Use local diagnostic networks to find lower rates in your area.
• Ask about package deals: Prenatal clinics often offer discounts for multiple scans.
• Pay in cash: Some facilities provide 10–20% off for same-day cash payments.
• Choose outpatient imaging centers: They are often 30–50% cheaper than hospitals.
• Check Medi-Cal eligibility: Low-income patients may qualify for free or low-cost imaging.
• Avoid unnecessary add-ons: Ask your doctor if 3D or Doppler imaging is essential for diagnosis.
Cost Comparison: Hospital vs. Independent Clinics [2025–2026]
Hospitals in Los Angeles generally charge higher ultrasound fees due to advanced infrastructure and staffing costs.
| Facility Type | Average Cost Range | Insurance Accepted | Wait Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public hospital | $200–$400 | Yes (Medi-Cal) | 1–3 weeks | Reliable but longer wait |
| Private hospital | $300–$600 | Yes | 1–2 days | Fast service, higher cost |
| Independent clinic | $180–$350 | Yes/No | 1–5 days | Affordable and accessible |
| Prenatal imaging center | $250–$500 | Yes | 1–2 days | Specialized for pregnancy |
| Mobile ultrasound unit | $150–$300 | Limited | 1–3 days | Low-cost and convenient |
Summary of Ultrasound Costs in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
| Borough / Area | Average Cost | Common Types | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown LA | $250–$450 | Abdominal, pelvic | Moderate pricing |
| Hollywood / West Hollywood | $300–$500 | Pregnancy, 3D/4D | Private clinics |
| Beverly Hills | $350–$600 | Vascular, pregnancy | Premium facilities |
| Santa Monica | $300–$520 | Doppler, prenatal | Coastal labs |
| San Fernando Valley | $200–$350 | Abdominal, thyroid | Affordable centers |
| South Los Angeles | $180–$300 | Pelvic, general | Budget-friendly |
| Pasadena / Glendale | $250–$400 | Diagnostic, prenatal | Balanced pricing |
FAQ: Ultrasound Cost in Los Angeles [2025–2026]
Q1. How much does an ultrasound cost in Los Angeles without insurance?
Without insurance, ultrasounds typically cost $180–$600, depending on scan type and clinic.
Q2. Are pregnancy ultrasounds more expensive?
Yes. Pregnancy ultrasounds range from $250 to $500, especially for 3D or 4D scans.
Q3. Does insurance cover ultrasounds in California?
Yes. Most plans and Medi-Cal cover medically necessary ultrasounds with a doctor’s referral.
Q4. Where can I get an affordable ultrasound in Los Angeles?
Community imaging centers in South LA and the San Fernando Valley offer low-cost options starting at $180.
Q5. Are hospital ultrasounds more expensive than clinic ultrasounds?
Yes. Hospital scans are often 30–40% more expensive than independent imaging centers.
Q6. How long does an ultrasound take?
Most ultrasounds take 20–45 minutes, and results are usually available within 24–48 hours.
Q7. Can I get a same-day ultrasound appointment in Los Angeles?
Yes. Many private clinics and mobile imaging providers offer same-day or next-day ultrasound services for an extra fee.