Baton Rouge vs Ruston: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Baton Rouge, LA and Ruston, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Baton Rouge, LA | Ruston, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $451,548▲ | $415,996 |
| Hourly Rate | $217.09▲ | $199.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $261,898▲ | $241,277 |
| 25th Percentile | $325,115▲ | $299,518 |
| 75th Percentile | $555,937▲ | $488,933 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $663,686▲ | $555,886 |
| Total Employed | 37▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Baton Rouge, LA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ruston.
The salary gap between Baton Rouge and Ruston is $35,552 (8.55%). Baton Rouge's median is +2.18% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Baton Rouge spans $401,788,Ruston spans $314,609. Baton Rouge 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, Baton Rouge ($500,053 effective) pays 8.55% more than Ruston ($460,682 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Baton Rouge if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($451,548/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($663,686)
- ✓Larger job market (37 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $500,053)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Ruston if…
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Baton Rouge grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Ruston over the same period.
Baton Rouge, LA
$320,468 (2024) → $430,046 (2025)
Ruston, LA
$295,237 (2024) → $396,187 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Baton Rouge, LA
Ruston, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Baton Rouge or Ruston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Baton Rouge and Ruston?
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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