How much does a radiologist earn?

As we saw in our fiche métier radiologist, this specialist in medical imaging plays an essential role in the diagnosis and treatment of disease, using techniques such as X-rays, MRI, CT scans and ultrasonography. However, as with many medical professions, radiologists' salaries vary according to a number of factors. This article describes them.

Factors influencing radiologists' salaries

Many factors determine the salary of a radiologist, including:

• Lérience: a radiologist starting out generally earns less than a professional with several years' practice. The greater the experience, the higher the salary tends to be.
• Location: salary can vary depending on the practitioner's region of practice. These differences are often linked to population density, cost of living and demand for medical imaging care.
• The status: working under salaried or freelance status affects the radiologist's income. Freelance radiologists are free to set their own rates, subject to the fiscal and administrative responsibilities of the location they occupy.
• La spécialité: radiologists with rare or high-demand specialties, such as interventional imaging, neuroradiology or pediatric radiology, generally enjoy higher incomes.

Average salary of radiologists

It's difficult to give a precise figure for the salary of radiologistsbecause of the many criteria that influence their rémunute;ration. However, here's a useful estimate when applying for a radiologist job:

• Confirmed radiologist :
• Salary: from 5,000à 15,000€ gross/month.
• Libéral: 15% royalty.

Radiologists who specialize in areas such as interventional imaging, oncology radiology or musculoskeletal radiology can bill for more expensive services, thereby increasing their income.

Additional benefits and compensation

In addition to their basic salary, radiologists can enjoy various benefits depending on their status:

• Freelance radiologists: these radiologists set their own rates, which can lead to higher incomes than salaried employees. On the other hand, they must bear the costs associated with running their practice, such as staff salaries, equipment purchases and insurance.
• Salaried radiologists: salaried radiologists benefit from employment security, a fixed salary and benefits offered by their employer. They generally work in public or private hospitals, clinics or health centers. Although their incomes may be lower than those of freelancers, they don't have to worry about the administrative and financial management of their practice.

To learn more, click on our radiologist fact sheet.