Columbia vs Memphis: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Columbia, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $429,260 | $474,933▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $206.38 | $228.33▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $248,971 | $275,461▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $309,068 | $341,951▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $519,978 | $594,118▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $602,043 | $716,009▲ |
| Total Employed | 10 | 122▲ |
Verdict
Memphis, TN offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Columbia and Memphis is $45,673 (10.64%). Memphis's median is +7.47% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $353,072,Memphis spans $440,548. Memphis 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, Memphis ($517,356 effective) pays 10.64% more than Columbia ($467,603 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($474,933/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($716,009)
- ✓Larger job market (122 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $517,356)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Columbia grew 26.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Columbia, TN
$322,066 (2024) → $408,819 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$356,333 (2024) → $452,317 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Columbia or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Memphis as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Columbia vs Memphis?
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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