Clifton vs Paterson: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Clifton, NJ and Paterson, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Clifton, NJ | Paterson, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $576,598 | $587,060▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $277.21 | $282.24▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $334,427 | $340,495▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $415,151 | $422,684▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $677,122 | $730,419▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $840,894 | $849,034▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 31▲ |
Verdict
Paterson, NJ offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Clifton.
The salary gap between Clifton and Paterson is $10,462 (1.81%). Paterson's median is +32.85% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Clifton spans $506,467,Paterson spans $508,539. Paterson 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, Paterson ($509,601 effective) pays 1.81% more than Clifton ($500,519 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Clifton if…
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Paterson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($587,060/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($849,034)
- ✓Larger job market (31 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $509,601)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Clifton grew 19.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.9% growth in Paterson over the same period.
Clifton, NJ
$457,922 (2024) → $549,141 (2025)
Paterson, NJ
$466,231 (2024) → $559,105 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Clifton, NJ
Paterson, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Clifton or Paterson?
What is the hourly rate difference between Clifton and Paterson?
Should I relocate from Clifton to Paterson 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