Birmingham vs Decatur: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Decatur, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Decatur, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $442,511▲ | $421,825 |
| Hourly Rate | $212.74▲ | $202.80 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $256,657▲ | $244,658 |
| 25th Percentile | $318,608▲ | $303,714 |
| 75th Percentile | $548,598▲ | $506,097 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $639,920▲ | $589,260 |
| Total Employed | 51▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Decatur.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Decatur is $20,686 (4.90%). Birmingham's median is +0.14% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $383,263,Decatur spans $344,602. Birmingham 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, Birmingham ($503,425 effective) pays 4.90% more than Decatur ($479,892 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($442,511/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($639,920)
- ✓Larger job market (51 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $503,425)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Decatur if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Birmingham grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Decatur over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$314,093 (2024) → $421,439 (2025)
Decatur, AL
$299,410 (2024) → $401,738 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Decatur, AL
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