La Crosse vs Madison: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between La Crosse, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | La Crosse, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,015 | $106,987▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $50.49 | $51.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,917 | $102,212▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,819 | $105,140▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $115,425 | $120,974▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,495▲ | $133,513 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 210▲ |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to La Crosse.
The salary gap between La Crosse and Madison is $1,972 (1.88%). Madison's median is +5.56% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in La Crosse spans $64,578,Madison spans $31,301. La Crosse 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, La Crosse ($112,436 effective) pays 2.24% more than Madison ($109,970 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose La Crosse if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,495)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,436)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,987/year)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in La Crosse grew 0.5% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 27.2% growth in Madison over the same period.
La Crosse, WI
$99,540 (2022) → $100,081 (2025)
Madison, WI
$80,170 (2019) → $101,960 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
La Crosse, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: La Crosse or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between La Crosse and Madison?
Should I relocate from La Crosse to Madison as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in La Crosse vs Madison?
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