Hays vs Wichita: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Hays, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hays, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $427,154 | $486,528▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $205.36 | $233.91▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $247,750 | $282,186▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $307,550 | $350,300▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $504,750 | $600,726▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $573,621 | $717,387▲ |
| Total Employed | 5 | 85▲ |
Verdict
Wichita, KS offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Hays.
The salary gap between Hays and Wichita is $59,374 (13.90%). Wichita's median is +10.10% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hays spans $325,871,Wichita spans $435,201. Wichita 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, Wichita ($535,234 effective) pays 13.90% more than Hays ($469,916 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hays if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($486,528/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($717,387)
- ✓Larger job market (85 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $535,234)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Hays grew 34.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.6% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Hays, KS
$302,132 (2024) → $406,813 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$344,129 (2024) → $463,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Wichita, KS
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