Radiologic Tech Salary Guide

Radiologic technologists, commonly known as radiology techs, are vital members of the healthcare team. They perform diagnostic imaging examinations, such as X-rays, MRI scans, and CT scans, to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions. 

With advancements in medical imaging technology and a growing demand for diagnostic services, radiology techs play a critical role in patient care. As a travel healthcare professional, understanding the salary landscape for radiology techs can help you make informed career decisions. 

This article explores the radiologic tech salary, including factors that influence earnings, top-paying states, and salary considerations for travel radiology techs. For more information on this rewarding career, check out our Radiologic Tech Career Guide.

How Much Does a Radiology Tech Make?

The salary of a radiology tech can vary significantly based on factors such as education, licensure, and experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for all radiologic technologists (including MRI techs) was $76,020 in 2023. 

However, this figure can fluctuate based on additional certifications and specialties. For instance, radiologic techs with advanced certifications in MRI or CT imaging often command higher salaries. Additionally, those working in specialized fields, such as nuclear medicine, may see increased earning potential.

For travel radiology techs, salaries can be even more attractive. Travel radiology tech salary packages often include benefits such as housing stipends, travel reimbursements, and bonuses, which can significantly boost overall compensation. On average, travel radiology techs can earn between $70,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on their assignments and the locations where they work.

Average X-Ray Tech Salary

  • Hourly Wage: $28.60 per hour

Average MRI Tech Salary

  • Hourly Wage: $40.26 per hour

Average CT Tech Salary

  • Hourly Wage: $35.05 per hour

Average Nuclear Medicine Tech

  • Hourly Wage: $44.47 per hour

Average Mammography Tech

  • Hourly Wage: $32.14 per hour

What are the Top-Paying States for Radiologic Techs?

Geographic location is a key factor influencing radiologic tech salaries. Some states offer higher average wages due to demand, cost of living, and regional healthcare needs. Here are the top-paying states for radiology techs, along with their average yearly salaries:

  1. California - $86,120
  2. Hawaii - $83,060
  3. Massachusetts - $82,080
  4. District of Columbia - $80,990
  5. Oregon - $79,200

These states not only provide higher salaries but often offer additional incentives for travel radiology techs, such as completion bonuses and housing allowances. Working in these high-demand areas can be especially lucrative for those looking to maximize their earning potential.

Salary Range Considerations

Several factors can influence the salary range for radiology techs, including experience, education, and additional certifications. Entry-level radiologic technologists typically start on the lower end of the salary spectrum, with annual earnings around $50,000 to $55,000. As they gain experience and obtain advanced certifications, their salaries can increase significantly.

Education also plays a significant role in determining salary. Radiologic techs with an associate degree can expect to earn less than those with a bachelor's degree or higher. Advanced degrees often open doors to leadership positions, specialized fields, and higher pay.

For travel radiology techs, assignments in rural or underserved areas may offer higher pay due to the increased demand for healthcare professionals. Additionally, travel radiology tech jobs often come with premium pay rates due to the specialized skills required for these positions.

Are Radiology Techs in High Demand?

Yes, radiology techs are in high demand. The increasing need for diagnostic imaging procedures in various medical settings, from hospitals to outpatient centers, drives this demand. As the population ages and the prevalence of chronic diseases rises, the need for skilled radiology techs continues to grow. 

Additionally, advancements in medical imaging technology and an emphasis on early diagnosis and preventive care further contribute to the rising demand for radiology techs. This high demand translates to numerous job opportunities and competitive salaries, especially for those willing to travel and work in different healthcare settings.

What is the Job Outlook like for a Radiologic Tech?

The job outlook for radiologic technologists is promising. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of radiologic technologists is projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. 

This growth is driven by the expanding healthcare industry and the increasing need for diagnostic imaging. Radiology techs who specialize in advanced imaging techniques or hold additional certifications are likely to enjoy even better job prospects. 

For travel radiology techs, the job outlook is particularly favorable, as healthcare facilities often rely on traveling professionals to fill temporary staffing needs and address shortages.

Travel Radiologic Tech Salary

Travel radiologic techs generally earn higher salaries compared to their staff counterparts. This is due to several factors, including the need to attract professionals to work in various locations, often on short notice. Travel radiology tech salary packages typically include base pay, housing stipends, travel allowances, and bonuses, making these positions financially attractive. Here’s a closer look at the salary comparisons across different specialties within radiologic technology:

Travel X-Ray Tech Salary

Travel X-ray techs can expect to earn between $65,000 and $85,000 annually, depending on their assignments and the regions they work in. In contrast, staff X-ray techs typically earn a median salary of around $59,484 per year.

Travel MRI Tech Salary

Travel MRI techs often command higher salaries due to the specialized nature of their work. They can earn between $75,000 and $95,000 per year. Staff MRI techs, on the other hand, have a median annual salary of about $83,740.

Travel CT Tech Salary

Travel CT techs can earn an annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $90,000. This is higher than the median salary for staff CT techs, which is approximately $72,906 per year.

Travel Nuclear Medicine Tech

Travel nuclear medicine techs are among the highest-paid in the field, with salaries ranging from $90,000 to $105,000 per year. In comparison, staff nuclear medicine technologists earn a median annual salary of about $92,500.

Travel Mammography Tech

Travel mammography techs earn between $70,000 and $90,000 per year, depending on their assignments and locations. This is significantly higher than the median salary for staff mammography techs, which is around $66,850 annually.

Find a Radiologic Tech Job with Trusted Health

Ready to explore the exciting opportunities available for travel radiologic techs? Trusted Health offers a wide range of travel radiology tech jobs that cater to various specialties and preferences. Whether you're looking for a short-term assignment in a bustling city or a long-term position in a tranquil rural setting, Trusted Health has the perfect job for you.

Find your next radiologic tech job with Trusted Health and take the next step in your rewarding career as a travel radiology tech.

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