Phoenix vs Surprise: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Phoenix, AZ and Surprise, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Phoenix, AZ | Surprise, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,879▲ | $99,615 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.87▲ | $47.89 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,648▲ | $70,954 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,449▲ | $83,197 |
| 75th Percentile | $116,147▲ | $111,980 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,447 | $136,359▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,600▲ | 31 |
Verdict
Phoenix, AZ offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Surprise.
The salary gap between Phoenix and Surprise is $8,264 (8.30%). Phoenix's median is +6.44% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Phoenix spans $56,799,Surprise spans $65,405. Surprise 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, Phoenix ($104,417 effective) pays 3.25% more than Surprise ($101,132 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Phoenix if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,879/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,600 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,417)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Surprise if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,359)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Phoenix grew 13.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.0% growth in Surprise over the same period.
Phoenix, AZ
$90,620 (2019) → $102,810 (2025)
Surprise, AZ
$90,424 (2024) → $94,935 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Phoenix, AZ
Surprise, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Phoenix or Surprise?
What is the hourly rate difference between Phoenix and Surprise?
Should I relocate from Phoenix to Surprise as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Phoenix vs Surprise?
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