Keizer vs Salem: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Keizer, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Keizer, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,811 | $133,975▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $54.72 | $64.41▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $83,172 | $101,100▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $93,412 | $108,078▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $123,278 | $141,152▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $145,716▲ | $143,828 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Salem, OR offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Keizer.
The salary gap between Keizer and Salem is $20,164 (17.72%). Salem's median is +32.19% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Keizer spans $62,544,Salem spans $42,728. Keizer 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, Salem ($129,258 effective) pays 16.53% more than Keizer ($110,927 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Keizer if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($145,716)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($133,975/year)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,258)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Keizer grew 5.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 47.3% growth in Salem over the same period.
Keizer, OR
$103,059 (2024) → $108,464 (2025)
Salem, OR
$86,690 (2019) → $127,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Keizer, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Keizer or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Keizer and Salem?
Should I relocate from Keizer to Salem as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Keizer vs Salem?
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