Aurora vs Decatur: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Aurora, IL and Decatur, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Decatur, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $423,723 | $435,077▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $203.71 | $209.17▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $245,760 | $252,344▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $305,081 | $313,255▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $511,831 | $518,864▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $602,713▲ | $602,551 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 13 |
Verdict
Aurora and Decatur are closely matched on overall radiologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Aurora and Decatur is $11,354 (2.68%). Decatur's median is -1.54% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aurora spans $356,953,Decatur spans $350,207. Aurora 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, Decatur ($448,071 effective) pays 2.68% more than Aurora ($436,378 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($602,713)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($435,077/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $448,071)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Aurora grew 7.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$373,955 (2024) → $403,546 (2025)
Decatur, IL
$383,976 (2024) → $414,359 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Decatur, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Aurora or Decatur?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Decatur?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Decatur 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