Columbus vs Jackson: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Columbus, MS and Jackson, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, MS | Jackson, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,676 | $84,521▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.26 | $40.64▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $57,900 | $66,190▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,311 | $76,389▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $86,422 | $98,214▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $99,865 | $103,681▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 170▲ |
Verdict
Jackson, MS offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Columbus and Jackson is $2,845 (3.48%). Jackson's median is -16.61% 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,Jackson spans $37,491. 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 0.41% more than Jackson ($94,916 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,305)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,521/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,681)
- ✓Larger job market (170 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 21.1% growth in Jackson over the same period.
Columbus, MS
$49,964 (2024) → $77,839 (2025)
Jackson, MS
$66,530 (2019) → $80,550 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, MS
Jackson, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Columbus or Jackson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbus and Jackson?
Should I relocate from Columbus to Jackson as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Columbus vs Jackson?
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