Rochester vs Schenectady: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Rochester, NY and Schenectady, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Schenectady, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,617 | $496,032▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.24 | $238.48▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,366 | $287,698▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,199 | $357,143▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,394 | $604,462▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $408,429 | $692,286▲ |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Schenectady, NY offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Rochester and Schenectady is $414,415 (507.76%). Schenectady's median is +12.25% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $336,063,Schenectady spans $404,588. Schenectady 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, Schenectady ($427,983 effective) pays 408.83% more than Rochester ($84,111 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Schenectady if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($496,032/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($692,286)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $427,983)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Rochester grew -83.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 5.2% growth in Schenectady over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$471,148 (2024) → $77,730 (2025)
Schenectady, NY
$448,995 (2024) → $472,411 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Schenectady, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Rochester or Schenectady?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Schenectady?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Schenectady 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