Des Moines vs Tacoma: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Des Moines, WA and Tacoma, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, WA | Tacoma, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $470,218 | $480,689▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $226.07 | $231.10▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $272,727 | $278,799▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $338,557 | $346,096▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $560,523 | $603,399▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $646,935 | $726,302▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 56▲ |
Verdict
Tacoma, WA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Tacoma is $10,471 (2.23%). Tacoma's median is +8.78% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $374,208,Tacoma spans $447,503. Tacoma 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, Tacoma ($447,569 effective) pays 2.23% more than Des Moines ($437,819 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Tacoma if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($480,689/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($726,302)
- ✓Larger job market (56 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $447,569)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Des Moines grew 2.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 2.6% growth in Tacoma over the same period.
Des Moines, WA
$436,270 (2024) → $447,827 (2025)
Tacoma, WA
$445,985 (2024) → $457,799 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, WA
Tacoma, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Des Moines or Tacoma?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Tacoma?
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Related Comparisons
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