Nashville vs Chattanooga: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Nashville, TN and Chattanooga, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Nashville, TN | Chattanooga, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $482,163▲ | $446,926 |
| Hourly Rate | $231.81▲ | $214.87 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $279,655▲ | $259,218 |
| 25th Percentile | $347,157▲ | $321,787 |
| 75th Percentile | $582,531▲ | $554,418 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $691,673▲ | $660,224 |
| Total Employed | 166▲ | 36 |
Verdict
Nashville, TN offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Chattanooga.
The salary gap between Nashville and Chattanooga is $35,237 (7.88%). Nashville's median is +9.11% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Nashville spans $412,018,Chattanooga spans $401,006. Nashville 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, Nashville ($525,232 effective) pays 7.88% more than Chattanooga ($486,847 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Nashville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($482,163/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($691,673)
- ✓Larger job market (166 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $525,232)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Chattanooga if…
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Nashville grew 26.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Chattanooga over the same period.
Nashville, TN
$361,758 (2024) → $459,203 (2025)
Chattanooga, TN
$335,320 (2024) → $425,644 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Nashville, TN
Chattanooga, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Nashville or Chattanooga?
What is the hourly rate difference between Nashville and Chattanooga?
Should I relocate from Nashville to Chattanooga 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