Bristol vs Chesapeake: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Bristol, VA and Chesapeake, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, VA | Chesapeake, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $473,045 | $508,648▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $227.43 | $244.55▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $274,366 | $295,016▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $340,593 | $366,226▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $556,688 | $640,547▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $630,980 | $771,368▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 63▲ |
Verdict
Chesapeake, VA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bristol.
The salary gap between Bristol and Chesapeake is $35,603 (7.53%). Chesapeake's median is +15.10% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bristol spans $356,614,Chesapeake spans $476,352. Chesapeake 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, Chesapeake ($492,876 effective) pays 7.53% more than Bristol ($458,377 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bristol if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Chesapeake if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($508,648/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($771,368)
- ✓Larger job market (63 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $492,876)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Bristol grew 19.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.5% growth in Chesapeake over the same period.
Bristol, VA
$377,109 (2024) → $450,519 (2025)
Chesapeake, VA
$405,492 (2024) → $484,427 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, VA
Chesapeake, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Bristol or Chesapeake?
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Should I relocate from Bristol to Chesapeake as a radiologist?
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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