Table of Contents
Diagnostic Radiologist Job Description (outlook)Top 5 Highest and Lowest Paying States for Diagnostic Radiologist Jobs in the USHistorical Data (Salary Outlook) For Salary MedianAverage Diagnostic Radiologist Salary by State (for non-traveling doctors)What is the average incentive bonus for a Diagnostic Radiologist Job?Employed vs. self-employed Diagnostic Radiologist JobMost common benefits for a Diagnostic RadiologistFrequently Asked QuestionsWhat is the average salary for a Diagnostic Radiologist?How does experience affect a diagnostic radiologist’s salary?Does a diagnostic radiologist receive bonuses in addition to their salaries?What is the earning potential for a diagnostic radiologist who engages in teaching?How does sub-specialization impact a diagnostic radiologist’s salary?Is there a difference in salary between diagnostic radiologists and other types of radiologists?Diagnostic Radiologist Job Description (outlook)
A diagnostic radiologist is a medical doctor who specializes in interpreting medical images to diagnose and treat diseases and injuries. Diagnostic radiologists analyze these images to identify abnormalities such as fractures, infections, tumors, and other medical conditions. Typical imaging includes X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, and nuclear medicine.
A diagnostic radiologist usually works in a hospital and may specialize in several areas, including vascular interventional; neuroimaging and intervention; abdominal imaging and intervention; nuclear medicine; chest and cardiac imaging; pediatric imaging; and mammography.
The demand for diagnostic radiologists is expected to remain strong and potentially grow in the coming years due to an aging population, new technological advancements leading to an expansion of scope, the rising prevalence of chronic conditions must be monitored, regional shortages, and the use of radiology in many healthcare specialties. A radiologist is the third most sought-after specialty by employers.
Top 5 Highest and Lowest Paying States for Diagnostic Radiologist Jobs in the US
Specific salary data varies by state and over time. The salary for a diagnostic radiologist is influenced by the demand for the specialty, cost of living, and regional economic conditions. According to Zippia, the highest and lowest paying states for diagnostic radiologist are as follows:
Top 5 Highest Paying States for Diagnostic Radiologist:
1. Wisconsin
2. Indiana
3. Pennsylvania
4. Minnesota
5. New Jersey
Top 5 Lowest Paying States for Diagnostic Radiologist:
1. Louisiana
2. Alabama
3. Idaho
4. California
5. Florida
The state data does vary between resources.
Historical Data (Salary Outlook) For Salary Median
** Chart from https://www.zippia.com/salaries/diagnostic-radiologist/#salary-history-line-chartMedian Salary, Entry-Level Salary, Average Salary
The median salary for a diagnostic radiologist in the U.S. is influenced by their experience, location, and specialization. Entry-level salaries for those just starting their careers may be lower than the median and based on demand for their specialty. The salary of a diagnostic radiologist in the US ranges from $400,143 to $532,403 with an entry salary of $206,920. A traveling diagnostic radiologist may receive a higher hourly rate because of their temporary job status. A non-traveling diagnostic radiologist who is working in a permanent hospital position may have a variable salary based on specialization, geographic location, type of healthcare institution, and expertise level.
Average Diagnostic Radiologist Salary by State (for non-traveling doctors)
| State | Annual Salary | Weekly Salary | Hourly Wage |
| Alabama | $103,512 | $1,990 | $49.77 |
| Alaska | $147,246 | $2,832 | $70.79 |
| Arizona | $138,267 | $2,659 | $66.47 |
| Arkansas | $116,704 | $2,244 | $56.11 |
| California | $116,768 | $2,246 | $56.14 |
| Colorado | $124,850 | $2,400 | $60.02 |
| Connecticut | $149,327 | $2,872 | $71.79 |
| Delaware | $142,370 | $2,738 | $68.45 |
| Florida | $108,314 | $2,083 | $52.07 |
| Georgia | $124,765 | $2,399 | $59.98 |
| Hawaii | $81,388 | $1,565 | $39.13 |
| Idaho | $111,949 | $2,153 | $53.82 |
| Illinois | $130,986 | $2,519 | $62.97 |
| Indiana | $150,333 | $2,891 | $72.28 |
| Iowa | $136,966 | $2,634 | $65.85 |
| Kansas | $124,611 | $2,396 | $59.91 |
| Kentucky | $144,151 | $2,772 | $69.30 |
| Louisiana | $105,973 | $2,037 | $50.95 |
| Maine | $124,355 | $2,391 | $59.79 |
| Maryland | $135,545 | $2,607 | $65.17 |
| Massachusetts | $142,178 | $2,734 | $68.35 |
| Michigan | $149,271 | $2,871 | $71.76 |
| Minnesota | $151,704 | $2,917 | $72.93 |
| Mississippi | $113,982 | $2,192 | $54.80 |
| Missouri | $131,709 | $2,533 | $63.32 |
| Montana | $115,395 | $2,219 | $55.48 |
| Nebraska | $125,541 | $2,414 | $60.36 |
| Nevada | $141,485 | $2,721 | $68.02 |
| New Hampshire | $128,155 | $2,465 | $61.61 |
| New Jersey | $155,194 | $2,985 | $74.61 |
| New Mexico | $120,574 | $2,319 | $57.97 |
| New York | $150,102 | $2,887 | $72.16 |
| North Carolina | $140,167 | $2,696 | $67.39 |
| North Dakota | $137,216 | $2,639 | $65.97 |
| Ohio | $143,164 | $2,753 | $68.83 |
| Oklahoma | $127,624 | $2,454 | $61.36 |
| Oregon | $140,556 | $2,703 | $67.58 |
| Pennsylvania | $146,521 | $2,818 | $70.44 |
| Rhode Island | $148,489 | $2,856 | $71.39 |
| South Carolina | $114,677 | $2,205 | $55.13 |
| South Dakota | $120,418 | $2,316 | $57.89 |
| Tennessee | $117,576 | $2,261 | $56.53 |
| Texas | $117,327 | $2,256 | $56.41 |
| Utah | $119,210 | $2,293 | $57.31 |
| Vermont | $140,784 | $2,707 | $67.68 |
| Virginia | $140,906 | $2,710 | $67.74 |
| Washington | $128,584 | $2,473 | $61.82 |
| West Virginia | $126,491 | $2,432 | $60.81 |
| Wisconsin | $153,789 | $2,957 | $73.94 |
| Wyoming | $131,333 | $2,526 | $63.14 |
**Data from Zippia
What is the average incentive bonus for a Diagnostic Radiologist Job?
The average incentive bonus for a diagnostic radiologist is $80,000 which is up from the prior year of $66,000. Many physicians earn bonuses based on performance metrics, such as patient satisfaction, efficiency, and outcomes. In a high-demand area or underserved regions, hospitals and medical groups may offer a signing bonus to a radiologist in the range of $10,000 to $50,000. Employers may also offer a retention bonus, which are paid out after the radiologist has remained with the system for a period of time. A productivity bonus may be offered as part of the compensation package and is tied to the number of procedures performed or hours worked. Lastly, in some private or group practices, the radiologist may receive a share of the profits or have an opportunity to buy into the practice as a partner for increased compensation.
Employed vs. self-employed Diagnostic Radiologist Job
Salaries vary between employed and self-employed radiologists. Employed physicians typically work for a hospital system and have a stable income, health insurance, retirement plans, a CME allowance, and paid time off. They have less financial risk and administrative responsibilities. A self-employed radiologist has the potential for higher earnings, increased flexibility, but must find jobs, and may/may not be provided with healthcare or a retirement plan.
How do you do an effective Diagnostic Radiologist job search?
It is easy to find a radiologist position with PRNHealthcare. Use the position job search bar by searching “I am a Physician” and select your specialty “Diagnostic Radiologist.” Finally, use the location bar to select your state and city of choice.
Most common benefits for a Diagnostic Radiologist
Being a diagnostic radiologist comes with many professional and personal benefits including:
- High Demand and Job Stability- Diagnostic radiologists are in high demand due to the important role they play in diagnosing medical conditions.
- Competitive Salary- Diagnostic radiologists earn high salaries, and have substantial income potential, especially with years of experience and specialization.
- Advanced Technology- Radiologists work with novel imaging technologies and techniques which keeps the role intellectually stimulating and interesting.
- Flexible Schedules- Compared to other physicians, radiologists may have more flexibility in their work arrangements with options like part-time work, telemedicine, and a variety of practice settings for different lifestyle needs and preferences.
- Patient Care- Radiologists play a key role in diagnosing diseases and conditions accurately, which directly impact patient outcomes and successful treatment.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: Radiologists can work in various settings, including hospitals, private practices, academic institutions, and telemedicine. There are also opportunities to subspecialize in areas such as interventional radiology, neuroradiology, or pediatric radiology.
- Personal Satisfaction: Radiologists play a crucial role in the early detection and treatment of diseases, thus potentially saving lives, which brings a great degree of purpose to a physician’s life.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average salary for a Diagnostic Radiologist?
The average salary can vary based on experience, location, and education. Radiologists are among the highest-paid medical specialists. Recent data suggests the average annual salary ranges from $350,000 to $500,000.
How does experience affect a diagnostic radiologist’s salary?
Experience significantly impacts salary. Entry-level diagnostic radiologists might earn around $250,000 to $300,000 annually, while those with several years of experience or a specialization can earn $500,000 or more.
Does a diagnostic radiologist receive bonuses in addition to their salaries?
Yes, radiologists often receive various bonuses and incentives including performance bonuses, signing bonuses, retention bonuses, and productivity bonuses.
What is the salary outlook for diagnostic radiologist in the future?
There is likely to be an increase in the demand for medical imaging leading to a stable or an increase in radiology salaries.
What is the earning potential for a diagnostic radiologist who engages in teaching?
A radiologist working in an academic setting generally earns less in base salary compared to one in a clinical role. According to the salary.com, the median salary for an academic radiologist is around $344,970 depending on their academic rank.
How does sub-specialization impact a diagnostic radiologist’s salary?
Radiologists who specialize in areas like interventional radiology, neuroradiology, or pediatric radiology receive higher salaries due to the additional training and expertise required.
Is there a difference in salary between diagnostic radiologists and other types of radiologists?
Yes, Interventional radiologists typically earn more than diagnostic radiologists due to the procedural nature of their work that requires additional skills and responsibility.