Manchester vs Trenton: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Manchester, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Manchester, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $112,481▲ | $102,097 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.08▲ | $49.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,737▲ | $81,027 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,046▲ | $86,546 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,773▲ | $111,362 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $151,537▲ | $123,188 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Manchester, NJ offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between Manchester and Trenton is $10,384 (10.17%). Manchester's median is +10.98% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Manchester spans $66,800,Trenton spans $42,161. Manchester 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, Trenton ($98,950 effective) pays 1.34% more than Manchester ($97,640 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Manchester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($112,481/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($151,537)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,950)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Manchester grew 2.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.4% growth in Trenton over the same period.
Manchester, NJ
$104,321 (2024) → $107,196 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$85,820 (2019) → $97,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Manchester, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Manchester or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Manchester and Trenton?
Should I relocate from Manchester to Trenton as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Manchester vs Trenton?
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