Radiology Technician Salary Information
How Much do Radiology Technicians Make?
The salary of a radiologic technologist can vary depending on factors such as location, years of experience, and specialty. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for radiologic technologists was $63,120 as of May 2021.
The lowest 10 percent of radiologic technologists earned less than $42,540 per year, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $96,940 per year. Radiologic technologists working in outpatient care centers tended to earn the highest salaries, followed by those working in hospitals and physicians’ offices.
It’s important to note that salaries can also vary based on certification and education level. Those who hold additional certifications or advanced degrees may be able to earn higher salaries.
What Are the Highest Paying States for Radiology Technicians? >>
What Are The Top Paying Cities For Radiology Technicians? >>
How Much More Do Radiology Techs Make With Experience? >>
Additional Monetary Benefits of a radiology Technician >>
Radiology Technician Salary Information by State
| State | Average Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama Radiology Technician Salary | $53,652 | $25.79 |
| Alaska Radiology Technician Salary | $68,433 | $32.90 |
| Arizona Radiology Technician Salary | $61,099 | $29.37 |
| Arkansas Radiology Technician Salary | $60,233 | $28.96 |
| California Radiology Technician Salary | $63,514 | $30.54 |
| Colorado Radiology Technician Salary | $62,383 | $29.99 |
| Connecticut Radiology Technician Salary | $70,239 | $33.77 |
| Delaware Radiology Technician Salary | $61,925 | $29.77 |
| Florida Radiology Technician Salary | $52,606 | $25.29 |
| Georgia Radiology Technician Salary | $49,427 | $23.76 |
| Hawaii Radiology Technician Salary | $72,603 | $34.91 |
| Idaho Radiology Technician Salary | $63,348 | $30.46 |
| Illinois Radiology Technician Salary | $56,953 | $27.38 |
| Indiana Radiology Technician Salary | $59,533 | $28.62 |
| Iowa Radiology Technician Salary | $64,822 | $31.16 |
| Kansas Radiology Technician Salary | $60,610 | $29.14 |
| Kentucky Radiology Technician Salary | $59,091 | $28.41 |
| Louisiana Radiology Technician Salary | $56,421 | $27.13 |
| Maine Radiology Technician Salary | $60,210 | $28.95 |
| Maryland Radiology Technician Salary | $66,097 | $31.78 |
| Massachusetts Radiology Technician Salary | $72,077 | $34.65 |
| Michigan Radiology Technician Salary | $58,483 | $28.12 |
| Minnesota Radiology Technician Salary | $70,755 | $34.02 |
| Mississippi Radiology Technician Salary | $60,111 | $28.90 |
| Missouri Radiology Technician Salary | $56,874 | $27.34 |
| Montana Radiology Technician Salary | $60,658 | $29.16 |
| Nebraska Radiology Technician Salary | $62,509 | $30.05 |
| Nevada Radiology Technician Salary | $71,398 | $34.33 |
| New Hampshire Radiology Technician Salary | $65,608 | $31.54 |
| New Jersey Radiology Technician Salary | $72,206 | $34.71 |
| New Mexico Radiology Technician Salary | $64,270 | $30.90 |
| New York Radiology Technician Salary | $69,522 | $33.42 |
| North Carolina Radiology Technician Salary | $51,366 | $24.70 |
| North Dakota Radiology Technician Salary | $67,170 | $32.29 |
| Ohio Radiology Technician Salary | $66,517 | $31.98 |
| Oklahoma Radiology Technician Salary | $59,234 | $28.48 |
| Oregon Radiology Technician Salary | $68,546 | $32.96 |
| Pennsylvania Radiology Technician Salary | $57,015 | $27.41 |
| Rhode Island Radiology Technician Salary | $69,272 | $33.30 |
| South Carolina Radiology Technician Salary | $61,274 | $29.46 |
| South Dakota Radiology Technician Salary | $63,624 | $30.59 |
| Tennessee Radiology Technician Salary | $72,845 | $35.02 |
| Texas Radiology Technician Salary | $56,326 | $27.08 |
| Utah Radiology Technician Salary | $64,142 | $30.84 |
| Vermont Radiology Technician Salary | $62,899 | $30.24 |
| Virginia Radiology Technician Salary | $64,233 | $30.88 |
| Washington Radiology Technician Salary | $69,711 | $33.52 |
| West Virginia Radiology Technician Salary | $58,680 | $28.21 |
| Wisconsin Radiology Technician Salary | $67,678 | $32.54 |
| Wyoming Radiology Technician Salary | $60,870 | $29.26 |
What might affect the salary of a radiology tech?
The salary of a radiology technician can vary depending on various factors, such as location, experience, specialization, and the type of setting in which they work. Generally, Radiology Techs who specialize in specific areas, have more experience, or work in high-demand settings tend to make the most money. Some of the factors that may lead to higher pay include:
- Education and certification: Radiology techs with higher levels of education, specialized certifications, and advanced training may command higher salaries.
- Experience: As with many professions, more experienced radiology techs generally earn more than their less-experienced counterparts.
- Geographic location: Salaries for radiology techs can vary depending on the region, with urban areas and regions with higher costs of living generally offering higher salaries.
- Employer: Different employers, such as hospitals, private imaging centers, or outpatient clinics, might offer varying salary levels for radiology techs. Additionally, larger institutions may provide higher salaries than smaller ones.
- Supply and demand: The job market for radiology techs can impact salaries, with higher demand for qualified professionals potentially leading to increased wages.
- Specialization: Radiology techs who have specialized in specific areas, such as MRI, CT, or mammography, may earn higher salaries due to the specialized nature of their work.
- Industry: Radiology techs working in different industries, such as research, education, or pharmaceuticals, may experience different salary levels.
- Negotiation skills: An individual’s ability to negotiate a favorable salary package can also impact their earnings.
- Job responsibilities: Radiology techs with additional responsibilities, such as supervisory roles, may command higher salaries.
- Unionization: If a radiology tech is part of a union, their salary may be affected by collective bargaining agreements, which can influence wages and benefits.
What type of Radiology Technician Makes the Most Money?
The salary of a radiology technician can vary based on their specialization, experience, and other factors. However, some of the highest-paid radiology technicians are those who specialize in advanced imaging modalities, which require additional education, training, and certification. These specialized radiology technicians typically earn higher salaries due to the complexity of their work and the additional skills required. Some of the higher-paying radiology technician specializations include:
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologist
MRI technologists specialize in using magnetic resonance imaging equipment to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures. This specialization requires additional training and certification beyond the basic radiology tech education.
Average Annual Salary: $73,410 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologist
CT technologists are trained to operate computed tomography scanners, which use X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the body. They must have a thorough understanding of radiation safety and the specific technology used in CT imaging.
Average Annual Salary: $75,470 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
Interventional Radiology Technologist
Interventional radiology techs assist radiologists in performing minimally invasive procedures using imaging guidance, such as angioplasty, stent placement, or tumor ablation. This role requires additional training and expertise in both radiology and patient care during medical procedures.
Average Annual Income: $63,120 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
Cardiac and Vascular Sonographer
These technologists specialize in using ultrasound technology to assess the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels. They may require additional training and certification in echocardiography or vascular sonography.
Average Annual Income: $76,570 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
Nuclear Medicine Technologist
Nuclear medicine technologists use small amounts of radioactive materials to diagnose and treat various conditions. They need additional education and certification in nuclear medicine technology and must adhere to strict safety protocols.
Average Annual Income: $77,950 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
Mammography Technologist
Mammography technologists are trained to use specialized X-ray equipment to create images of breast tissue, helping detect breast cancer and other abnormalities. Additional certification and education in mammography are usually required.
Average Annual Income: $63,120 (According to BLS as of May 2021)
What Are the Highest Paying States for Radiology Technicians?
| Rank | State | Employment | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Average Salary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | California | 18,290 | $ 45.75 | $ 95,170 |
| 2 | Hawaii | 550 | $ 40.43 | $ 84,100 |
| 3 | Massachusetts | 5,400 | $ 38.16 | $ 79,360 |
| 4 | District of Columbia | 480 | $ 38.14 | $ 79,320 |
| 5 | Oregon | 2,200 | $ 37.89 | $ 78,800 |
What Are the Top Paying Cities for Radiology Technicians?
| Metropolitan area | Employment | Hourly mean wage | Annual mean wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vallejo-Fairfield, CA | 250 | $ 61.48 | $ 127,890 |
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA | 930 | $ 56.96 | $ 118,480 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA | 2,490 | $ 56.78 | $ 118,100 |
| Santa Rosa, CA | 210 | $ 53.98 | $ 112,270 |
| Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA | 1,150 | $ 51.66 | $ 107,450 |
| Stockton-Lodi, CA | 260 | $ 48.72 | $ 101,350 |
| Modesto, CA | 250 | $ 48.24 | $ 100,340 |
| Salinas, CA | 150 | $ 46.60 | $ 96,930 |
| Santa Cruz-Watsonville, CA | 120 | $ 45.51 | $ 94,660 |
| Redding, CA | 110 | $ 44.90 | $ 93,400 |
What Skills might Affect Radiology Technician Salaries?
Various skills can affect the salary of a radiology technician, as they may contribute to improved job performance, increased efficiency, and better patient care. Some of these skills include:
Technical proficiency
Strong expertise in operating and maintaining radiological equipment, such as X-ray machines, MRI scanners, or CT machines, can lead to a higher salary.
Specialized certifications
Obtaining certifications in specific imaging modalities, such as MRI, CT, mammography, or nuclear medicine, can increase a radiology technician’s earning potential.
Patient care skills
Excellent communication, empathy, and interpersonal skills are essential for interacting with patients, easing their concerns, and ensuring their comfort during imaging procedures. Radiology technicians with strong patient care skills may be more highly valued by employers.
Attention to detail
Being detail-oriented is crucial for a radiology technician, as they must accurately position patients and follow safety protocols to obtain high-quality images and minimize radiation exposure. Those with a keen eye for detail may command higher salaries.
Problem-solving and critical thinking
Radiology technicians who can quickly assess situations, troubleshoot equipment issues, and adapt to changing circumstances may be more highly valued by employers, potentially leading to increased wages.
Time management and organization
Efficiently managing patient schedules, equipment maintenance, and imaging processing can improve productivity and contribute to a radiology technician’s overall value, possibly impacting their salary.
Adaptability and continuous learning
The field of radiology is constantly evolving, and radiology technicians who can quickly adapt to new technologies and stay up-to-date with industry advancements may be more highly sought after, potentially earning higher salaries.
Teamwork and collaboration
Radiology technicians often work closely with radiologists, physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals. Those with strong collaboration skills may be more highly valued by employers.
Leadership and management
Radiology technicians who demonstrate strong leadership and management skills may be more likely to be promoted to supervisory roles or positions with increased responsibilities, which can come with higher salaries.
Computer and software skills
Familiarity with imaging software, electronic medical records systems, and other healthcare-related software can be a valuable skill for a radiology technician, potentially leading to higher wages.
How Can I Increase my Salary As A Radiology Technician?
Maintain a professional portfolio
Document your achievements, certifications, and professional development activities to showcase your skills and growth to current or potential employers. This portfolio can serve as evidence of your value during salary negotiations or when applying for promotions.
Pursue further education
Obtaining specialized certifications in specific imaging modalities, such as MRI, CT, mammography, or nuclear medicine, can increase your marketability and earning potential. You can also consider pursuing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field to broaden your knowledge and improve your career prospects.
Specialize in a particular area
Specializing in a specific imaging modality or area of radiology can potentially lead to higher salaries. Evaluate the demand for different specializations in your region and choose one that aligns with your interests and strengths.
Focus on improving your technical proficiency, patient care, problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. Becoming more proficient in using radiologic equipment and software can also enhance your value to employers.
Network and stay informed
Join professional associations, attend industry conferences, and participate in online forums to network with other professionals and stay informed about industry trends and advancements. Networking can lead to new job opportunities and help you identify high-paying positions.
Demonstrate leadership potential
Develop your leadership and management skills to position yourself for supervisory roles or positions with increased responsibilities. Taking on additional tasks or leading projects can showcase your potential to employers and may result in higher pay.
Does A Radiology Tech Make More Than A Sonography Tech?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2020, the median annual wage for radiologic technologists, which includes radiology technicians, was $60,510. For diagnostic medical sonographers, which include sonography technicians, the median annual wage was $70,380.
It’s worth noting that salaries can vary significantly within each profession based on experience, education, certification, and specialization. For example, radiology technicians with certifications in advanced imaging modalities like MRI or CT scans may earn higher salaries, while sonography technicians who specialize in cardiac or vascular sonography might also command higher wages.
How Much More Do Radiology Technicians Make With Experience?
Radiology technicians have the ability to earn a higher hourly wage with increased experience. According to Payscale.com, radiology technicians earn the following,
| Years of Experience | Hourly Wage |
| 1-4 | $20.63 |
| 5-9 | $24.24 |
| 10-19 | $26.30 |
| 20+ | $26 |
Additional Monetary Benefits of a Radiology Technician
Health insurance
Many employers offer health insurance coverage as part of their benefits package, which may include medical, dental, and vision insurance.
Retirement savings plans
Employers may offer retirement savings plans, such as a 401(k) or a 403(b), to help radiology technicians save for their retirement. Some employers also provide matching contributions up to a certain percentage.
Paid time off
Radiology technicians typically receive paid time off, which can include vacation days, sick leave, and personal days. The amount of PTO varies by employer and may increase with years of service.
Continuing education reimbursement
Some employers offer financial assistance or reimbursement for continuing education courses, seminars, or conferences that help radiology technicians maintain their licensure or certification and stay up-to-date with industry advancements.
Professional membership fees
Employers may cover the cost of professional association membership fees or provide allowances for attending industry events, such as conferences or workshops.
Life insurance and disability coverage
Some employers offer life insurance and short-term or long-term disability coverage as part of their benefits package.
Employee wellness programs
Employers may offer wellness programs, such as gym memberships, fitness classes, or wellness initiatives, to promote a healthy work-life balance and overall well-being.
Employee assistance programs (EAP)
EAPs are employer-sponsored programs that offer confidential support, counseling, and referral services for employees facing personal or work-related issues.
Performance bonuses or incentives
Some employers may offer performance-based bonuses or incentives for meeting specific goals or achieving exceptional results.