Leland vs Raleigh: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Leland, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Leland, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,371 | $90,376▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.12 | $43.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,880 | $76,494▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,785 | $83,199▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $89,530 | $102,496▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,637 | $114,772▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 430▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Leland.
The salary gap between Leland and Raleigh is $9,005 (11.07%). Raleigh's median is -10.83% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Leland spans $39,757,Raleigh spans $38,278. Leland 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, Raleigh ($92,073 effective) pays 5.91% more than Leland ($86,935 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Leland if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,376/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,772)
- ✓Larger job market (430 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,073)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Leland grew 14.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Leland, NC
$67,796 (2024) → $77,548 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$67,850 (2019) → $86,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Leland, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Leland or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Leland and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Leland to Raleigh as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Leland vs Raleigh?
Related Comparisons
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