Detroit vs Sterling Heights: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Detroit, MI and Sterling Heights, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Sterling Heights, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $441,013▲ | $420,482 |
| Hourly Rate | $212.03▲ | $202.16 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $255,787▲ | $243,879 |
| 25th Percentile | $317,529▲ | $302,747 |
| 75th Percentile | $547,954▲ | $499,314 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $658,499▲ | $626,512 |
| Total Employed | 126▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Detroit, MI offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Sterling Heights.
The salary gap between Detroit and Sterling Heights is $20,531 (4.88%). Detroit's median is -0.20% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $402,712,Sterling Heights spans $382,633. Detroit 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, Detroit ($473,190 effective) pays 4.88% more than Sterling Heights ($451,161 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($441,013/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($658,499)
- ✓Larger job market (126 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $473,190)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Sterling Heights if…
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Detroit grew 10.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 10.8% growth in Sterling Heights over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$379,234 (2024) → $420,012 (2025)
Sterling Heights, MI
$361,579 (2024) → $400,459 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Sterling Heights, MI
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