Chesapeake vs Dale City: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Dale City, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Dale City, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $508,648▲ | $478,804 |
| Hourly Rate | $244.55▲ | $230.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $295,016▲ | $277,706 |
| 25th Percentile | $366,226▲ | $344,739 |
| 75th Percentile | $640,547▲ | $586,640 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $771,368▲ | $671,690 |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Chesapeake, VA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Dale City.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Dale City is $29,844 (6.23%). 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 Chesapeake spans $476,352,Dale City spans $393,984. Chesapeake 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, Chesapeake ($492,876 effective) pays 6.23% more than Dale City ($463,957 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Dale City if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Chesapeake grew 19.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.5% growth in Dale City over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$405,492 (2024) → $484,427 (2025)
Dale City, VA
$381,700 (2024) → $456,004 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Dale City, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Chesapeake or Dale City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chesapeake and Dale City?
Should I relocate from Chesapeake to Dale City as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Chesapeake vs Dale City?
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