Rochester vs Utica: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Rochester, NY and Utica, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Utica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,116 | $102,538▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.41 | $49.30▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,254 | $83,388▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $82,097 | $85,959▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,803 | $104,636▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,847▲ | $105,213 |
| Total Employed | 400▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Rochester and Utica are closely matched on overall diagnostic medical sonographer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Rochester and Utica is $16,422 (19.07%). Utica's median is +1.17% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $28,593,Utica spans $21,825. Rochester 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, Utica ($110,639 effective) pays 24.67% more than Rochester ($88,747 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,847)
- ✓Larger job market (400 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Utica if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,538/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,639)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Rochester grew 13.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 27.0% growth in Utica over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$72,370 (2019) → $82,070 (2025)
Utica, NY
$76,920 (2019) → $97,720 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Rochester or Utica?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Utica?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Utica as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Rochester vs Utica?
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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