Madison vs Waukesha: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Madison, WI and Waukesha, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Waukesha, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,792 | $413,758▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.17 | $198.92▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,008 | $239,980▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,008 | $297,906▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $308,396 | $487,362▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $705,359▲ | $564,485 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 14 |
Verdict
Madison and Waukesha are closely matched on overall radiologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Madison and Waukesha is $271,966 (191.81%). Waukesha's median is -6.37% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $620,351,Waukesha spans $324,505. Madison 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, Waukesha ($442,996 effective) pays 203.95% more than Madison ($145,746 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($705,359)
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Waukesha if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($413,758/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $442,996)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Madison grew -63.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 7.9% growth in Waukesha over the same period.
Madison, WI
$371,241 (2024) → $135,040 (2025)
Waukesha, WI
$365,161 (2024) → $394,055 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Waukesha, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
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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