Jackson vs Knoxville: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Jackson, TN and Knoxville, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Jackson, TN | Knoxville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,043▲ | $83,272 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.36▲ | $40.03 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,583▲ | $49,118 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,583▲ | $68,551 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,114 | $90,964▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $90,114 | $102,443▲ |
| Total Employed | 90 | 280▲ |
Verdict
Jackson and Knoxville are closely matched on overall diagnostic medical sonographer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Jackson and Knoxville is $2,771 (3.33%). Jackson's median is -15.10% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Jackson spans $18,531,Knoxville spans $53,325. Knoxville 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, Jackson ($100,609 effective) pays 11.84% more than Knoxville ($89,957 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Jackson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,043/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,609)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Knoxville if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,443)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Jackson grew 35.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 34.9% growth in Knoxville over the same period.
Jackson, TN
$60,420 (2019) → $82,000 (2025)
Knoxville, TN
$58,830 (2019) → $79,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Jackson, TN
Knoxville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Jackson or Knoxville?
What is the hourly rate difference between Jackson and Knoxville?
Should I relocate from Jackson to Knoxville as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Jackson vs Knoxville?
Related Comparisons
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