Augusta vs Columbus: Anesthesiologist Salary (2026)
Compare anesthesiologist salaries between Augusta, GA and Columbus, GA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Augusta, GA | Columbus, GA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $435,869▲ | $384,474 |
| Hourly Rate | $209.55▲ | $184.84 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $223,160▲ | $222,995 |
| 25th Percentile | $406,599▲ | $276,822 |
| 75th Percentile | $435,869 | $492,127▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $443,049 | $568,141▲ |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Augusta, GA offers better overall compensation for anesthesiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbus.
The salary gap between Augusta and Columbus is $51,395 (13.37%). Augusta's median is +6.54% compared to the US national median of $409,107.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Augusta spans $219,889,Columbus spans $345,146. Columbus has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced anesthesiologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Augusta ($474,271 effective) pays 14.84% more than Columbus ($412,969 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Augusta if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($435,869/year)
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $474,271)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($568,141)
- ✓You prefer the Georgia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, anesthesiologist salaries in Augusta grew 112.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 8.7% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Augusta, GA
$196,100 (2024) → $417,100 (2025)
Columbus, GA
$338,324 (2024) → $367,918 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Augusta, GA
Columbus, GA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays anesthesiologists more: Augusta or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Augusta and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Augusta to Columbus as a anesthesiologist?
What do entry-level anesthesiologists earn in Augusta vs Columbus?
Related Comparisons
Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has over 10 years of experience in anesthesiology. She specializes in perioperative care at a major metropolitan hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.50% 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 anesthesiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov