Los Angeles vs Merced: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Merced, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $513,104▲ | $485,591 |
| Hourly Rate | $246.69▲ | $233.46 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $101,241 | $281,643▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $102,984 | $349,626▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $521,630 | $582,930▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $521,630 | $680,745▲ |
| Total Employed | 310▲ | 20 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Merced.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Merced is $27,513 (5.67%). 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 Los Angeles spans $420,389,Merced spans $399,102. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($451,811 effective) pays 5.23% more than Merced ($429,347 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
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
Choose Merced if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($680,745)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Los Angeles grew -10.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to -6.5% growth in Merced over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$548,633 (2024) → $488,670 (2025)
Merced, CA
$494,489 (2024) → $462,468 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Merced, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Los Angeles or Merced?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Merced?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Merced as a radiologist?
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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