Lake Elsinore vs San Jose: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Lake Elsinore, CA and San Jose, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lake Elsinore, CA | San Jose, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $498,259 | $540,014▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $239.55 | $259.62▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $288,990 | $313,208▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $358,746 | $388,810▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $584,311 | $655,824▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $722,739 | $780,467▲ |
| Total Employed | 18 | 168▲ |
Verdict
San Jose, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lake Elsinore.
The salary gap between Lake Elsinore and San Jose is $41,755 (8.38%). San Jose's median is +22.20% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lake Elsinore spans $433,749,San Jose spans $467,259. San Jose 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, San Jose ($477,466 effective) pays 8.38% more than Lake Elsinore ($440,547 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lake Elsinore if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($540,014/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($780,467)
- ✓Larger job market (168 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $477,466)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Lake Elsinore grew -6.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.5% growth in San Jose over the same period.
Lake Elsinore, CA
$507,388 (2024) → $474,532 (2025)
San Jose, CA
$549,908 (2024) → $514,299 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lake Elsinore, CA
San Jose, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Lake Elsinore or San Jose?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lake Elsinore and San Jose?
Should I relocate from Lake Elsinore to San Jose as a radiologist?
What do entry-level radiologists earn in Lake Elsinore vs San Jose?
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