Bethesda vs Wheaton: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Bethesda, MD and Wheaton, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bethesda, MD | Wheaton, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $466,521 | $482,933▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $224.29 | $232.18▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $270,582 | $280,101▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $335,895 | $347,712▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $567,023 | $577,883▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $665,656 | $673,928▲ |
| Total Employed | 18▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Wheaton, MD offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Bethesda.
The salary gap between Bethesda and Wheaton is $16,412 (3.52%). Wheaton's median is +9.28% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bethesda spans $395,074,Wheaton spans $393,827. Bethesda 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, Wheaton ($441,842 effective) pays 3.52% more than Bethesda ($426,826 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bethesda if…
- ✓Larger job market (18 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Wheaton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($482,933/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($673,928)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $441,842)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Bethesda grew 6.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.5% growth in Wheaton over the same period.
Bethesda, MD
$417,006 (2024) → $444,306 (2025)
Wheaton, MD
$431,675 (2024) → $459,936 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bethesda, MD
Wheaton, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
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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