Kearney vs Omaha: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Kearney, NE and Omaha, NE. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kearney, NE | Omaha, NE |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,304▲ | $87,008 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.94▲ | $41.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,218 | $72,475▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,006 | $84,185▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,404 | $105,518▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,083▲ | $109,620 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 530▲ |
Verdict
Kearney, NE offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Omaha.
The salary gap between Kearney and Omaha is $2,296 (2.64%). Kearney's median is -11.89% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kearney spans $49,865,Omaha spans $37,145. Kearney 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, Kearney ($97,600 effective) pays 3.10% more than Omaha ($94,665 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kearney if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,304/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,083)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,600)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Choose Omaha if…
- ✓Larger job market (530 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Nebraska area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Kearney grew 27.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.6% growth in Omaha over the same period.
Kearney, NE
$66,965 (2024) → $85,108 (2025)
Omaha, NE
$64,460 (2019) → $82,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kearney, NE
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Kearney or Omaha?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kearney and Omaha?
Should I relocate from Kearney to Omaha as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Kearney vs Omaha?
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