Fairfax vs Norfolk: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Fairfax, VA and Norfolk, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fairfax, VA | Norfolk, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $469,642 | $514,243▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $225.79 | $247.23▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $272,392 | $298,261▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $338,142 | $370,255▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $547,962 | $633,681▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $621,073 | $758,858▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 54▲ |
Verdict
Norfolk, VA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Fairfax.
The salary gap between Fairfax and Norfolk is $44,601 (9.50%). Norfolk's median is +16.37% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fairfax spans $348,681,Norfolk spans $460,597. Norfolk 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, Norfolk ($498,297 effective) pays 9.50% more than Fairfax ($455,079 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fairfax if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Norfolk if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($514,243/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($758,858)
- ✓Larger job market (54 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $498,297)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Fairfax grew 19.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.5% growth in Norfolk over the same period.
Fairfax, VA
$374,396 (2024) → $447,278 (2025)
Norfolk, VA
$409,951 (2024) → $489,755 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fairfax, VA
Norfolk, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Fairfax or Norfolk?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fairfax and Norfolk?
Should I relocate from Fairfax to Norfolk as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Fairfax vs Norfolk?
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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