Trenton vs Wayne: Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Salary (2026)
Compare diagnostic medical sonographer salaries between Trenton, NJ and Wayne, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Trenton, NJ | Wayne, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,097 | $114,328▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $49.09 | $54.96▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,027 | $83,267▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,546 | $94,085▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $111,362 | $127,406▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,188 | $153,685▲ |
| Total Employed | 160▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Wayne, NJ offers better overall compensation for diagnostic medical sonographers, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between Trenton and Wayne is $12,231 (11.98%). Wayne's median is +12.80% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Trenton spans $42,161,Wayne spans $70,418. Wayne 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, Wayne ($99,243 effective) pays 0.30% more than Trenton ($98,950 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Wayne if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,328/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($153,685)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,243)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, diagnostic medical sonographer salaries in Trenton grew 13.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 2.8% growth in Wayne over the same period.
Trenton, NJ
$85,820 (2019) → $97,300 (2025)
Wayne, NJ
$106,034 (2024) → $108,956 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays diagnostic medical sonographers more: Trenton or Wayne?
What is the hourly rate difference between Trenton and Wayne?
Should I relocate from Trenton to Wayne as a diagnostic medical sonographer?
What do entry-level diagnostic medical sonographers earn in Trenton vs Wayne?
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