Chicago vs Peoria: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Chicago, IL and Peoria, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | Peoria, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $503,906▲ | $430,171 |
| Hourly Rate | $242.27▲ | $206.81 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $248,640 | $249,499▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $503,906▲ | $309,724 |
| 75th Percentile | $503,906 | $511,487▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $503,916 | $639,826▲ |
| Total Employed | N/A | 28 |
Verdict
Chicago and Peoria are closely matched on overall radiologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Chicago and Peoria is $73,735 (17.14%). Chicago's median is +14.03% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $255,276,Peoria spans $390,327. Peoria 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, Chicago ($486,419 effective) pays 9.80% more than Peoria ($443,019 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($503,906/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $486,419)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Peoria if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($639,826)
- ✓Larger job market (28 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Chicago grew 200.8% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Peoria over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$159,530 (2022) → $479,910 (2025)
Peoria, IL
$379,647 (2024) → $409,687 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
Peoria, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Chicago or Peoria?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and Peoria?
Should I relocate from Chicago to Peoria as a radiologist?
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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