Surprise vs Tucson: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Surprise, AZ and Tucson, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Surprise, AZ | Tucson, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $434,334 | $477,073▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $208.81 | $229.36▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $251,914 | $276,702▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $312,720 | $343,493▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $530,038 | $588,582▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $626,878 | $702,644▲ |
| Total Employed | 31 | 137▲ |
Verdict
Tucson, AZ offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Surprise.
The salary gap between Surprise and Tucson is $42,739 (9.84%). Tucson's median is +7.96% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Surprise spans $374,964,Tucson spans $425,942. Tucson 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, Tucson ($484,338 effective) pays 9.84% more than Surprise ($440,948 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Surprise if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Tucson if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($477,073/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($702,644)
- ✓Larger job market (137 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $484,338)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Surprise grew 13.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.7% growth in Tucson over the same period.
Surprise, AZ
$363,663 (2024) → $413,651 (2025)
Tucson, AZ
$399,447 (2024) → $454,355 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Surprise, AZ
Tucson, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologists more: Surprise or Tucson?
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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