Decatur vs Huntsville: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Decatur, AL and Huntsville, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Decatur, AL | Huntsville, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,578▲ | $71,457 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.42▲ | $34.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $48,952 | $54,889▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $58,143 | $61,374▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $79,058 | $83,818▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $94,764 | $96,703▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Decatur and Huntsville are closely matched on overall diagnostic medical sonographer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Decatur and Huntsville is $121 (0.17%). Decatur's median is -29.38% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Decatur spans $45,812,Huntsville spans $41,814. Decatur has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Decatur ($81,431 effective) pays 6.06% more than Huntsville ($76,776 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,578/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $81,431)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Huntsville if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($96,703)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Decatur grew 21.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.9% growth in Huntsville over the same period.
Decatur, AL
$56,320 (2024) → $68,215 (2025)
Huntsville, AL
$61,390 (2019) → $68,100 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Decatur, AL
Huntsville, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Decatur or Huntsville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Decatur and Huntsville?
Should I relocate from Decatur to Huntsville as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Decatur vs Huntsville?
Written by Aisha Khan, RDMS, RVT
Career Analyst
Aisha has over 10 years of experience in abdominal sonography. She works at a regional hospital. Aisha also conducts training for new sonographers.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.93% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Aisha Khan, RDMS, RVT, a licensed diagnostic medical sonographer with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov