Aiken vs Columbia: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Aiken, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aiken, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $451,877 | $467,603▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $217.25 | $224.81▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $262,088 | $271,210▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $325,351 | $336,674▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $539,129 | $558,896▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $622,473 | $652,688▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 29▲ |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Aiken.
The salary gap between Aiken and Columbia is $15,726 (3.48%). Columbia's median is +5.82% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aiken spans $360,385,Columbia spans $381,478. Columbia has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbia ($511,042 effective) pays 3.48% more than Aiken ($493,855 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aiken if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($467,603/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($652,688)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $511,042)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Aiken grew 35.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.5% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Aiken, SC
$317,564 (2024) → $430,359 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$328,615 (2024) → $445,336 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has 10 years of experience in diagnostic radiology. She specializes in imaging techniques for oncology. She works at a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.00% 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 Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed radiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov