Huntsville vs Opelika: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Huntsville, AL and Opelika, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Huntsville, AL | Opelika, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $441,019▲ | $406,670 |
| Hourly Rate | $212.03▲ | $195.51 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $255,791▲ | $235,869 |
| 25th Percentile | $317,534▲ | $292,803 |
| 75th Percentile | $535,338▲ | $488,000 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $634,577▲ | $563,291 |
| Total Employed | 46▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Huntsville, AL offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Opelika.
The salary gap between Huntsville and Opelika is $34,349 (8.45%). Huntsville'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 Huntsville spans $378,786,Opelika spans $327,422. Huntsville 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, Huntsville ($501,728 effective) pays 8.45% more than Opelika ($462,651 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Huntsville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($441,019/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($634,577)
- ✓Larger job market (46 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $501,728)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Opelika if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Huntsville grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Opelika over the same period.
Huntsville, AL
$313,034 (2024) → $420,018 (2025)
Opelika, AL
$288,653 (2024) → $387,305 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Huntsville, AL
Opelika, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Huntsville or Opelika?
What is the hourly rate difference between Huntsville and Opelika?
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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