North Bergen vs Trenton: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between North Bergen, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Bergen, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,228▲ | $102,097 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.44▲ | $49.09 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,742 | $81,027▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $91,887▲ | $86,546 |
| 75th Percentile | $125,061▲ | $111,362 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $149,761▲ | $123,188 |
| Total Employed | 13 | 160▲ |
Verdict
North Bergen, NJ offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between North Bergen and Trenton is $11,131 (10.90%). North Bergen's median is +11.72% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in North Bergen spans $69,019,Trenton spans $42,161. North Bergen 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 0.67% more than North Bergen ($98,288 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose North Bergen if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($113,228/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,761)
- ✓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 North Bergen grew 2.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.4% growth in Trenton over the same period.
North Bergen, NJ
$105,014 (2024) → $107,908 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$85,820 (2019) → $97,300 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
North Bergen, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: North Bergen or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between North Bergen and Trenton?
Should I relocate from North Bergen to Trenton as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in North Bergen 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