Lafayette vs Monroe: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Lafayette, LA and Monroe, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lafayette, LA | Monroe, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,053 | $89,107▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.37 | $42.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,463 | $67,470▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,496 | $85,392▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $91,195 | $99,432▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,404▲ | $100,009 |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 60 |
Verdict
Lafayette and Monroe are closely matched on overall diagnostic medical sonographer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Lafayette and Monroe is $3,054 (3.55%). Monroe's median is -12.08% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lafayette spans $34,941,Monroe spans $32,539. Lafayette 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, Monroe ($106,591 effective) pays 8.02% more than Lafayette ($98,674 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lafayette if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,404)
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Monroe if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,107/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,591)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Lafayette grew 42.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 51.5% growth in Monroe over the same period.
Lafayette, LA
$57,580 (2019) → $82,010 (2025)
Monroe, LA
$56,060 (2019) → $84,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lafayette, LA
Monroe, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Lafayette or Monroe?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lafayette and Monroe?
Should I relocate from Lafayette to Monroe as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Lafayette vs Monroe?
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