Des Moines vs Johnston: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Des Moines, IA and Johnston, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,373▲ | $80,708 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.93▲ | $38.80 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,961▲ | $62,302 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,449▲ | $70,159 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,503▲ | $88,876 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,609▲ | $104,300 |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Johnston.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Johnston is $10,665 (13.21%). Des Moines's median is -9.85% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $24,648,Johnston spans $41,998. Johnston has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced diagnostic medical sonographers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Des Moines ($99,642 effective) pays 11.61% more than Johnston ($89,279 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,373/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,609)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,642)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Johnston if…
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Des Moines grew 13.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.6% growth in Johnston over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$76,470 (2019) → $87,080 (2025)
Johnston, IA
$63,768 (2024) → $76,916 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Johnston, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Des Moines or Johnston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Johnston?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Johnston as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Des Moines vs Johnston?
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