Salina vs Wichita: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Salina, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salina, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,146▲ | $85,214 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.86▲ | $40.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,182 | $69,537▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,391 | $82,832▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,390 | $104,164▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,214▲ | $108,372 |
| Total Employed | 11 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Salina, KS offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wichita.
The salary gap between Salina and Wichita is $3,932 (4.61%). Salina's median is -12.04% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salina spans $44,032,Wichita spans $38,835. Salina 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, Salina ($98,070 effective) pays 2.37% more than Wichita ($95,804 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salina if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,146/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,214)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,070)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Salina grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.9% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Salina, KS
$63,330 (2024) → $84,958 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$75,960 (2019) → $81,210 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Salina, KS
Wichita, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Salina or Wichita?
What is the hourly rate difference between Salina and Wichita?
Should I relocate from Salina to Wichita as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Salina vs Wichita?
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