Peoria vs Rockford: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Peoria, IL and Rockford, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Peoria, IL | Rockford, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,630 | $99,704▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.46 | $47.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,646 | $82,045▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,934▲ | $82,318 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,591 | $107,102▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,054▲ | $114,510 |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Peoria and Rockford are closely matched on overall diagnostic medical sonographer compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Peoria and Rockford is $3,074 (3.18%). Rockford's median is -1.63% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Peoria spans $37,408,Rockford spans $32,465. Peoria 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, Rockford ($108,193 effective) pays 2.15% more than Peoria ($105,918 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,054)
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Rockford if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,704/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,193)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Peoria grew 17.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.5% growth in Rockford over the same period.
Peoria, IL
$78,120 (2019) → $92,090 (2025)
Rockford, IL
$78,210 (2019) → $95,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Peoria, IL
Rockford, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Peoria or Rockford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Peoria and Rockford?
Should I relocate from Peoria to Rockford as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Peoria vs Rockford?
Related Comparisons
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