Grand Island vs Lincoln: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Grand Island, NE and Lincoln, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Island, NE | Lincoln, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,521▲ | $85,518 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.52▲ | $41.11 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,476 | $65,907▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,155 | $80,859▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,676▲ | $95,161 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,887▲ | $107,417 |
| Total Employed | 14 | 100▲ |
Verdict
Grand Island, NE offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lincoln.
The salary gap between Grand Island and Lincoln is $5,003 (5.85%). Grand Island's median is -10.69% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Grand Island spans $55,411,Lincoln spans $41,510. Grand Island 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, Grand Island ($98,930 effective) pays 5.94% more than Lincoln ($93,380 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Island if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,521/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,887)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,930)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Lincoln if…
- ✓Larger job market (100 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Grand Island grew 27.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 30.4% growth in Lincoln over the same period.
Grand Island, NE
$67,878 (2024) → $86,268 (2025)
Lincoln, NE
$62,480 (2019) → $81,500 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Island, NE
Lincoln, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Grand Island or Lincoln?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Island and Lincoln?
Should I relocate from Grand Island to Lincoln as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Grand Island vs Lincoln?
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