Charleston vs Columbia: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Charleston, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,422▲ | $88,603 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.44▲ | $42.60 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,006▲ | $72,958 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,396▲ | $77,869 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,555▲ | $93,797 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,555▲ | $102,013 |
| Total Employed | 210 | 320▲ |
Verdict
Charleston, SC offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Charleston and Columbia is $3,819 (4.31%). Charleston's median is -8.81% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $32,549,Columbia spans $29,055. Charleston 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, Columbia ($94,599 effective) pays 3.34% more than Charleston ($91,541 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,422/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,555)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $94,599)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Charleston grew 19.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 26.7% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Charleston, SC
$73,710 (2019) → $88,080 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$66,630 (2019) → $84,440 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Charleston or Columbia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and Columbia?
Should I relocate from Charleston to Columbia as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Charleston vs Columbia?
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