Independence vs Lexington: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Independence, KY and Lexington, KY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, KY | Lexington, KY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,791▲ | $88,068 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.17▲ | $42.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,002▲ | $48,971 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,237 | $79,338▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,754 | $106,347▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,415▲ | $110,586 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 120▲ |
Verdict
Independence, KY offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lexington.
The salary gap between Independence and Lexington is $1,723 (1.96%). Independence's median is -11.41% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $52,413,Lexington spans $61,615. Lexington has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced diagnostic medical sonographers.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Independence ($100,550 effective) pays 6.05% more than Lexington ($94,810 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,791/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,415)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,550)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Choose Lexington if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Independence grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.8% growth in Lexington over the same period.
Independence, KY
$63,787 (2024) → $85,572 (2025)
Lexington, KY
$66,740 (2019) → $83,930 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, KY
Lexington, KY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Independence or Lexington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Lexington?
Should I relocate from Independence to Lexington as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Independence vs Lexington?
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