Columbia vs Lexington: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Columbia, SC and Lexington, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Lexington, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $467,603▲ | $430,432 |
| Hourly Rate | $224.81▲ | $206.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $271,210▲ | $249,650 |
| 25th Percentile | $336,674▲ | $309,911 |
| 75th Percentile | $558,896▲ | $496,805 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $652,688▲ | $560,481 |
| Total Employed | 29▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lexington.
The salary gap between Columbia and Lexington is $37,171 (8.64%). Columbia's median is +5.82% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $381,478,Lexington spans $310,831. 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 ($511,042 effective) pays 8.64% more than Lexington ($470,417 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 ($467,603/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($652,688)
- ✓Larger job market (29 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $511,042)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Lexington if…
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Columbia grew 35.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.5% growth in Lexington over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$328,615 (2024) → $445,336 (2025)
Lexington, SC
$302,492 (2024) → $409,935 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Lexington, SC
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