Bridgeport vs Waterbury: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Bridgeport, CT and Waterbury, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bridgeport, CT | Waterbury, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,550▲ | $107,690 |
| Hourly Rate | $57.00▲ | $51.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $88,624▲ | $86,893 |
| 25th Percentile | $111,142▲ | $98,099 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,536▲ | $131,246 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,454▲ | $133,922 |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Bridgeport, CT offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterbury.
The salary gap between Bridgeport and Waterbury is $10,860 (10.08%). Bridgeport's median is +16.97% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bridgeport spans $56,830,Waterbury spans $47,029. Bridgeport 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, Bridgeport ($110,935 effective) pays 2.78% more than Waterbury ($107,930 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bridgeport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($118,550/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,454)
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $110,935)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Waterbury if…
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Bridgeport grew 38.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.5% growth in Waterbury over the same period.
Bridgeport, CT
$81,560 (2019) → $112,980 (2025)
Waterbury, CT
$79,890 (2019) → $102,630 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bridgeport, CT
Waterbury, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Bridgeport or Waterbury?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bridgeport and Waterbury?
Should I relocate from Bridgeport to Waterbury as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Bridgeport vs Waterbury?
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