Columbia vs Wheaton: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Columbia, MD and Wheaton, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MD | Wheaton, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $621,600▲ | $482,933 |
| Hourly Rate | $298.85▲ | $232.18 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $360,528▲ | $280,101 |
| 25th Percentile | $447,552▲ | $347,712 |
| 75th Percentile | $758,267▲ | $577,883 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $893,408▲ | $673,928 |
| Total Employed | 24▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Columbia, MD offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wheaton.
The salary gap between Columbia and Wheaton is $138,667 (28.71%). Columbia's median is +40.66% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $532,880,Wheaton spans $393,827. Columbia 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, Columbia ($568,710 effective) pays 28.71% more than Wheaton ($441,842 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($621,600/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($893,408)
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $568,710)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Wheaton if…
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Columbia grew 33.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.5% growth in Wheaton over the same period.
Columbia, MD
$443,919 (2024) → $592,000 (2025)
Wheaton, MD
$431,675 (2024) → $459,936 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MD
Wheaton, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
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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