Carol Stream vs Springfield: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Carol Stream, IL and Springfield, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carol Stream, IL | Springfield, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,425 | $103,325▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.32 | $49.67▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,486 | $84,689▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,687▲ | $85,287 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,246▲ | $108,319 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,341▲ | $114,206 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Springfield, IL offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Carol Stream.
The salary gap between Carol Stream and Springfield is $4,900 (4.98%). Springfield's median is +1.95% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carol Stream spans $62,855,Springfield spans $29,517. Carol Stream 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, Springfield ($111,408 effective) pays 9.91% more than Carol Stream ($101,365 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carol Stream if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,341)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,325/year)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $111,408)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Carol Stream grew 18.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.1% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Carol Stream, IL
$79,082 (2024) → $93,801 (2025)
Springfield, IL
$75,680 (2019) → $98,470 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carol Stream, IL
Springfield, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Carol Stream or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carol Stream and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Carol Stream to Springfield as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Carol Stream vs Springfield?
Related Comparisons
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