Fairfield vs Hartford: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Fairfield, CT and Hartford, CT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fairfield, CT | Hartford, CT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,892▲ | $103,482 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.91▲ | $49.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,720 | $79,894▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $89,990 | $100,943▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,579▲ | $111,499 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $146,819▲ | $130,470 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 390▲ |
Verdict
Fairfield, CT offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hartford.
The salary gap between Fairfield and Hartford is $2,410 (2.33%). Fairfield's median is +4.48% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fairfield spans $69,099,Hartford spans $50,576. Fairfield 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, Hartford ($100,716 effective) pays 2.63% more than Fairfield ($98,139 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fairfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,892/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($146,819)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Choose Hartford if…
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,716)
- ✓You prefer the Connecticut area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Fairfield grew -0.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.8% growth in Hartford over the same period.
Fairfield, CT
$101,855 (2024) → $100,917 (2025)
Hartford, CT
$79,030 (2019) → $98,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fairfield, CT
Hartford, CT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Fairfield or Hartford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fairfield and Hartford?
Should I relocate from Fairfield to Hartford as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Fairfield vs Hartford?
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