Benton vs Little Rock: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Benton, AR and Little Rock, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Benton, AR | Little Rock, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,284▲ | $86,252 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.48▲ | $41.47 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,277 | $70,198▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,954 | $79,170▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,591▲ | $91,887 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,686▲ | $105,035 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Benton, AR offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Little Rock.
The salary gap between Benton and Little Rock is $32 (0.04%). Benton's median is -14.87% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Benton spans $50,409,Little Rock spans $34,837. Benton 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, Benton ($99,291 effective) pays 2.87% more than Little Rock ($96,518 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Benton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,284/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,686)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,291)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Little Rock if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Benton grew 46.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 29.3% growth in Little Rock over the same period.
Benton, AR
$56,187 (2024) → $82,230 (2025)
Little Rock, AR
$63,590 (2019) → $82,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Benton, AR
Little Rock, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Benton or Little Rock?
What is the hourly rate difference between Benton and Little Rock?
Should I relocate from Benton to Little Rock as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Benton vs Little Rock?
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