Madison vs Middleton: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Madison, WI and Middleton, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Middleton, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,987▲ | $100,447 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.44▲ | $48.29 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $102,212▲ | $76,883 |
| 25th Percentile | $105,140▲ | $86,842 |
| 75th Percentile | $120,974▲ | $110,015 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,513▲ | $129,327 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Middleton.
The salary gap between Madison and Middleton is $6,540 (6.51%). 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 Madison spans $31,301,Middleton spans $52,444. Middleton 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, Madison ($109,970 effective) pays 2.26% more than Middleton ($107,545 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($106,987/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,513)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,970)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Middleton if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Madison grew 27.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 38.6% growth in Middleton over the same period.
Madison, WI
$80,170 (2019) → $101,960 (2025)
Middleton, WI
$69,082 (2024) → $95,728 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Middleton, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Madison or Middleton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and Middleton?
Should I relocate from Madison to Middleton as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Madison vs Middleton?
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