Columbus vs Hattiesburg: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Columbus, MS and Hattiesburg, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, MS | Hattiesburg, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,676▲ | $80,670 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.26▲ | $38.78 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,900 | $65,990▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,311▲ | $69,348 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,422▲ | $82,171 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,865▲ | $84,479 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, MS offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hattiesburg.
The salary gap between Columbus and Hattiesburg is $1,006 (1.25%). Columbus's median is -19.41% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $41,965,Hattiesburg spans $18,489. Columbus 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, Columbus ($95,305 effective) pays 3.53% more than Hattiesburg ($92,054 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,676/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($99,865)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,305)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Hattiesburg if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Columbus grew 55.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 27.8% growth in Hattiesburg over the same period.
Columbus, MS
$49,964 (2024) → $77,839 (2025)
Hattiesburg, MS
$60,150 (2021) → $76,880 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, MS
Hattiesburg, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Columbus or Hattiesburg?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Hattiesburg?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Hattiesburg as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Columbus vs Hattiesburg?
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