Chattanooga vs Columbia: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Chattanooga, TN and Columbia, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chattanooga, TN | Columbia, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $446,926▲ | $429,260 |
| Hourly Rate | $214.87▲ | $206.38 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $259,218▲ | $248,971 |
| 25th Percentile | $321,787▲ | $309,068 |
| 75th Percentile | $554,418▲ | $519,978 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $660,224▲ | $602,043 |
| Total Employed | 36▲ | 10 |
Verdict
Chattanooga, TN offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Chattanooga and Columbia is $17,666 (4.12%). Chattanooga's median is +1.14% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chattanooga spans $401,006,Columbia spans $353,072. Chattanooga 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, Chattanooga ($486,847 effective) pays 4.12% more than Columbia ($467,603 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chattanooga if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($446,926/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($660,224)
- ✓Larger job market (36 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $486,847)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Chattanooga grew 26.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Chattanooga, TN
$335,320 (2024) → $425,644 (2025)
Columbia, TN
$322,066 (2024) → $408,819 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chattanooga, TN
Columbia, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
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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