Are you curious about how much a radiology technologist makes in 2025? Whether you are considering a career in radiologic technology or you’re already in the field and looking to boost your earnings, understanding the current pay landscape is essential. This blog post will give you a detailed look at the radiology technologist salary, with insights into pay by location, education level, work setting, and years of experience. We’ll also compare salaries with related professions and discuss growth trends.
What Is the Average Salary for a Radiologic Technologist in 2025?
As of 2025, the average salary for a radiologic technologist in the United States is approximately $70,000 to $85,000 per year. However, this range can vary significantly depending on several factors including location, education, certifications, and years of experience.
Radiology technologists, also known as radiographers or X-ray techs, play a crucial role in the healthcare industry. They perform diagnostic imaging examinations like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to help physicians diagnose medical conditions. Because of the specialized skills and responsibilities involved, these professionals are compensated well across most states.
Radiologic Technologist Salary by State
Location is one of the biggest factors that influence salary. Here’s a snapshot of radiologic technologist salary by state:
- California: $95,000 – One of the highest paying states due to cost of living and demand.
- Texas: $72,000 – Moderate pay with a growing demand for radiologic techs.
- New York: $85,000 – High salary paired with high living expenses.
- Florida: $68,000 – Slightly below the national average but with many job opportunities.
- Illinois: $78,000 – Competitive wages with urban and suburban job openings.
In general, highest paying states for radiology techs include California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Oregon, and Alaska.
Radiology Tech Salary Hourly Breakdown
Understanding your pay on an hourly basis can help you budget and plan your career better. The radiology tech salary hourly typically ranges from $30 to $42 per hour in 2025. Entry-level techs may start at the lower end, while experienced and specialized techs can command rates over $45/hour, especially for night shifts, weekends, or high-demand imaging techniques.
Entry Level Radiology Technologist Salary
If you are just starting out, you can expect an entry level radiology technologist salary to fall between $55,000 and $65,000 per year. This amount will depend heavily on where you work and whether you have any specialized certifications.
New graduates with an associate degree and limited experience often begin their careers in hospitals or urgent care centers where they can gain hands-on training and grow into higher-paying roles.
Radiology Technologist Salary by Experience
Experience plays a major role in salary progression. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- 0–2 years: $55,000 – $65,000
- 3–5 years: $65,000 – $75,000
- 6–10 years: $75,000 – $85,000
- 10+ years: $85,000 – $95,000+
Clearly, the radiologic technologist salary by experience grows steadily, especially when combined with continued education and additional certifications.
Radiology Technologist Salary with Associate Degree vs. Bachelor’s Degree
Education level also impacts earnings. Many techs enter the profession with a two-year associate degree, but those with a bachelor’s degree may qualify for advanced roles and higher pay.
- Radiology technologist salary with associate degree: $60,000 – $75,000
- Radiology technologist salary with bachelor’s degree: $75,000 – $90,000
A bachelor’s degree can also open the door to supervisory roles, educational positions, or specialized imaging careers.
Radiology Tech Salary in Hospitals vs. Other Settings
Where you work matters. Here’s how pay varies by employment setting:
- Hospitals: $70,000 – $85,000 (most common workplace with full benefits)
- Outpatient care centers: $72,000 – $88,000 (often pay more due to specialization)
- Physician offices: $65,000 – $75,000
- Diagnostic laboratories: $68,000 – $80,000
The radiology tech salary in hospitals remains competitive, especially for those willing to work flexible shifts.
Radiologic Technologist Salary vs. Technician Salary
The terms “technologist” and “technician” are often used interchangeably, but there are key differences. Radiology technician vs technologist salary comparisons show that technologists generally earn more due to their additional responsibilities and education.
- Radiologic technician: $50,000 – $60,000
- Radiologic technologist: $70,000 – $85,000
Technologists typically operate more complex imaging equipment, supervise technicians, and sometimes assist in advanced diagnostics.
Salary Growth Trends for Radiology Technologists
According to labor statistics and industry forecasts, the radiology technologist salary growth has been steady and is expected to increase due to a rising demand for diagnostic imaging in an aging population.
Advances in medical imaging technology and increasing use of preventive healthcare will also boost demand, leading to better salaries and more job openings.
Radiologic Technologist Pay Scale 2025
The radiologic technologist pay scale 2025 has widened compared to previous years, offering more flexibility and opportunities for those willing to specialize or relocate. Here’s a summarized pay scale:
- Low range (entry level): $55,000
- Mid range (average): $70,000 – $85,000
- High range (senior/specialized roles): $90,000 – $110,000
This reflects a growing recognition of the value radiology techs bring to healthcare teams.
Radiology Technologist Benefits and Compensation
Aside from base salary, many radiologic technologists receive a comprehensive compensation package. Radiology technologist benefits and compensation often include:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement plans (401k with match)
- Paid time off and sick leave
- Continuing education allowances
- Shift differentials for night or weekend work
These perks can add $10,000 or more to the overall value of your compensation.
Radiology Tech Salary vs. Other Medical Careers
How does the radiologic technologist salary compare to other healthcare jobs?
- Registered Nurse (RN): $75,000 – $95,000
- Medical Laboratory Technician: $55,000 – $70,000
- Ultrasound Technician: $75,000 – $90,000
- Physical Therapist Assistant: $60,000 – $80,000
As shown, the radiology tech salary vs other medical careers is competitive, especially given the shorter time required to enter the field.
Final Thoughts
The radiology technologist field offers strong earning potential, solid job security, and meaningful work. Whether you’re just entering the profession or looking to increase your income, understanding these salary dynamics can help you make smarter career decisions.
From entry level radiology technologist salary to high-end roles requiring advanced degrees and certifications, there’s a broad range of opportunities. Salaries vary based on location, experience, and setting, but the outlook remains positive across the board.
If you are considering this career path or already a part of it, take full advantage of your options for education, certification, and relocation to maximize your earnings and professional growth.
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FAQs:
What is the average salary for a radiology technologist?
The average radiology technologist salary in 2025 ranges from $70,000 to $85,000 per year in the U.S. This depends on factors like location, experience, and education. Entry-level techs usually earn less, while those with advanced certifications or working in high-demand areas earn more.
How much does a radiology tech make hourly?
Radiology techs typically earn between $30 and $42 per hour. Hourly wages depend on experience, location, and work setting. Specialized skills or working night shifts can increase hourly pay. Entry-level techs start at the lower end, with experienced techs earning higher rates.
Does education affect radiology technologist salary?
Yes, education impacts salary. Technologists with an associate degree typically earn between $60,000 and $75,000 annually. Those with a bachelor’s degree or higher can make $75,000 to $90,000, often qualifying for supervisory or specialized roles, which offer better pay.
Which states pay radiology technologists the most?
Highest paying states include California, Massachusetts, Hawaii, Oregon, and Alaska. Salaries in these states often exceed $90,000 due to higher living costs and demand. Pay varies widely by state, so relocation can significantly impact earnings.
How does radiology technologist salary compare to similar jobs?
Radiology technologists earn competitively compared to related medical roles. For example, registered nurses often make $75,000-$95,000, while ultrasound technicians earn $75,000-$90,000. Radiology techs typically earn more than medical lab technicians, reflecting their specialized skills and education requirements.