Laguna Niguel vs Los Angeles: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Laguna Niguel, CA and Los Angeles, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Laguna Niguel, CA | Los Angeles, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $485,275 | $513,104▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $233.31 | $246.69▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $281,460▲ | $101,241 |
| 25th Percentile | $349,398▲ | $102,984 |
| 75th Percentile | $592,799▲ | $521,630 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $697,385▲ | $521,630 |
| Total Employed | 16 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Laguna Niguel.
The salary gap between Laguna Niguel and Los Angeles is $27,829 (5.73%). Los Angeles's median is +16.11% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Laguna Niguel spans $415,925,Los Angeles spans $420,389. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($451,811 effective) pays 5.30% more than Laguna Niguel ($429,067 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Laguna Niguel if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($697,385)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($513,104/year)
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $451,811)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Laguna Niguel grew -6.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -10.9% growth in Los Angeles over the same period.
Laguna Niguel, CA
$494,166 (2024) → $462,167 (2025)
Los Angeles, CA
$548,633 (2024) → $488,670 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Laguna Niguel, CA
Los Angeles, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Laguna Niguel or Los Angeles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Laguna Niguel and Los Angeles?
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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