Appleton vs Milwaukee: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Appleton, WI and Milwaukee, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Appleton, WI | Milwaukee, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $407,940 | $453,370▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $196.13 | $217.97▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $236,605 | $262,955▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $293,717 | $326,426▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $482,467 | $549,884▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $559,812 | $652,197▲ |
| Total Employed | 17 | 113▲ |
Verdict
Milwaukee, WI offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Appleton.
The salary gap between Appleton and Milwaukee is $45,430 (11.14%). Milwaukee's median is +2.59% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Appleton spans $323,207,Milwaukee spans $389,242. Milwaukee 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, Milwaukee ($485,407 effective) pays 11.14% more than Appleton ($436,767 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Appleton if…
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Milwaukee if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($453,370/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($652,197)
- ✓Larger job market (113 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $485,407)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Appleton grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Milwaukee over the same period.
Appleton, WI
$360,026 (2024) → $388,514 (2025)
Milwaukee, WI
$400,120 (2024) → $431,781 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Appleton, WI
Milwaukee, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Appleton or Milwaukee?
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Should I relocate from Appleton to Milwaukee as a radiologist?
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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