New Orleans vs Ruston: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between New Orleans, LA and Ruston, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | New Orleans, LA | Ruston, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $445,927▲ | $415,996 |
| Hourly Rate | $214.39▲ | $199.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $258,637▲ | $241,277 |
| 25th Percentile | $321,067▲ | $299,518 |
| 75th Percentile | $548,708▲ | $488,933 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $656,696▲ | $555,886 |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 4 |
Verdict
New Orleans, LA offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Ruston.
The salary gap between New Orleans and Ruston is $29,931 (7.20%). New Orleans's median is +0.91% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in New Orleans spans $398,059,Ruston spans $314,609. New Orleans 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, New Orleans ($493,828 effective) pays 7.20% more than Ruston ($460,682 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose New Orleans if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($445,927/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($656,696)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $493,828)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose Ruston if…
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in New Orleans grew 34.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.2% growth in Ruston over the same period.
New Orleans, LA
$316,478 (2024) → $424,692 (2025)
Ruston, LA
$295,237 (2024) → $396,187 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
New Orleans, LA
Ruston, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: New Orleans or Ruston?
What is the hourly rate difference between New Orleans and Ruston?
Should I relocate from New Orleans to Ruston as a radiologist?
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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