Chesapeake vs Fairfax: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Chesapeake, VA and Fairfax, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chesapeake, VA | Fairfax, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $508,648▲ | $469,642 |
| Hourly Rate | $244.55▲ | $225.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $295,016▲ | $272,392 |
| 25th Percentile | $366,226▲ | $338,142 |
| 75th Percentile | $640,547▲ | $547,962 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $771,368▲ | $621,073 |
| Total Employed | 63▲ | 4 |
Verdict
Chesapeake, VA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfax.
The salary gap between Chesapeake and Fairfax is $39,006 (8.31%). 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,Fairfax spans $348,681. 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 8.31% more than Fairfax ($455,079 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 Fairfax 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 Fairfax over the same period.
Chesapeake, VA
$405,492 (2024) → $484,427 (2025)
Fairfax, VA
$374,396 (2024) → $447,278 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chesapeake, VA
Fairfax, VA
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