Madison vs Wausau: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Madison, WI and Wausau, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | Wausau, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $141,792 | $401,300▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $68.17 | $192.94▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $85,008 | $232,754▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,008 | $288,936▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $308,396 | $484,401▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $705,359▲ | $562,018 |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Madison and Wausau are closely matched on overall radiologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Madison and Wausau is $259,508 (183.02%). Wausau's median is -9.19% 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,Wausau spans $329,264. 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, Wausau ($429,657 effective) pays 194.80% 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 Wausau if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($401,300/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $429,657)
- ✓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 Wausau over the same period.
Madison, WI
$371,241 (2024) → $135,040 (2025)
Wausau, WI
$354,166 (2024) → $382,190 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
Wausau, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
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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