Bakersfield vs Sacramento: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Bakersfield, CA and Sacramento, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bakersfield, CA | Sacramento, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $535,173▲ | $532,758 |
| Hourly Rate | $257.29▲ | $256.14 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $310,401▲ | $309,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $385,325▲ | $383,586 |
| 75th Percentile | $650,682 | $659,014▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $774,730 | $790,478▲ |
| Total Employed | 101▲ | 94 |
Verdict
Bakersfield, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sacramento.
The salary gap between Bakersfield and Sacramento is $2,415 (0.45%). Bakersfield's median is +21.11% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bakersfield spans $464,329,Sacramento spans $481,478. Sacramento 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, Bakersfield ($473,186 effective) pays 0.45% more than Sacramento ($471,050 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bakersfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($535,173/year)
- ✓Larger job market (101 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $473,186)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Sacramento if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($790,478)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Bakersfield grew -6.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.5% growth in Sacramento over the same period.
Bakersfield, CA
$544,979 (2024) → $509,689 (2025)
Sacramento, CA
$542,520 (2024) → $507,389 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bakersfield, CA
Sacramento, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Bakersfield or Sacramento?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bakersfield and Sacramento?
Should I relocate from Bakersfield to Sacramento as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Bakersfield vs Sacramento?
Related Comparisons
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