Aurora vs Normal: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Aurora, IL and Normal, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aurora, IL | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $423,723▲ | $416,012 |
| Hourly Rate | $203.71▲ | $200.00 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $245,760▲ | $241,287 |
| 25th Percentile | $305,081▲ | $299,528 |
| 75th Percentile | $511,831▲ | $498,364 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $602,713▲ | $581,472 |
| Total Employed | 44▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Aurora, IL offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Normal.
The salary gap between Aurora and Normal is $7,711 (1.85%). Aurora's median is -4.11% 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,Normal spans $340,185. 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, Aurora ($436,378 effective) pays 1.85% more than Normal ($428,437 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aurora if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($423,723/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($602,713)
- ✓Larger job market (44 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $436,378)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Normal if…
- ✓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 Normal over the same period.
Aurora, IL
$373,955 (2024) → $403,546 (2025)
Normal, IL
$367,150 (2024) → $396,202 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Aurora, IL
Normal, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Aurora or Normal?
What is the hourly rate difference between Aurora and Normal?
Should I relocate from Aurora to Normal as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Aurora vs Normal?
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