Kalispell vs Missoula: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Kalispell, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kalispell, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,099 | $95,349▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.76 | $45.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,039 | $69,250▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,443 | $80,408▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,067 | $106,109▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,566 | $127,929▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Kalispell.
The salary gap between Kalispell and Missoula is $2,250 (2.42%). Missoula's median is -5.92% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kalispell spans $45,527,Missoula spans $58,679. Missoula 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, Missoula ($99,115 effective) pays 2.42% more than Kalispell ($96,777 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kalispell if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,349/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,929)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,115)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Kalispell grew 20.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 20.7% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Kalispell, MT
$73,485 (2024) → $88,725 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$75,261 (2024) → $90,869 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kalispell, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Kalispell or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kalispell and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Kalispell to Missoula as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Kalispell vs Missoula?
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