Billings vs Missoula: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Billings, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Billings, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,632▲ | $95,349 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.15▲ | $45.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,416▲ | $69,250 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,863▲ | $80,408 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,632▲ | $106,109 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,687 | $127,929▲ |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Billings, MT offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Billings and Missoula is $17,283 (18.13%). Billings's median is +11.13% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Billings spans $37,271,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, Billings ($120,429 effective) pays 21.50% more than Missoula ($99,115 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Billings if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,632/year)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $120,429)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,929)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Billings grew 37.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 20.7% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Billings, MT
$78,250 (2019) → $107,340 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$75,261 (2024) → $90,869 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Billings, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Billings or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Billings and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Billings to Missoula as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Billings 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