Bristol vs Norfolk: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Bristol, VA and Norfolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $473,045 | $514,243▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $227.43 | $247.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $274,366 | $298,261▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $340,593 | $370,255▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $556,688 | $633,681▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $630,980 | $758,858▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 54▲ |
Verdict
Norfolk, VA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bristol.
The salary gap between Bristol and Norfolk is $41,198 (8.71%). Norfolk's median is +16.37% 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,Norfolk spans $460,597. Norfolk 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, Norfolk ($498,297 effective) pays 8.71% 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 Norfolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($514,243/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($758,858)
- ✓Larger job market (54 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $498,297)
- ✓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 Norfolk over the same period.
Bristol, VA
$377,109 (2024) → $450,519 (2025)
Norfolk, VA
$409,951 (2024) → $489,755 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, VA
Norfolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Bristol or Norfolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Norfolk?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Norfolk as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Bristol vs Norfolk?
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