Radiologic Technologist pay
What radiologic technologists earn — and keep — in 2026
Radiologic technologists (rad techs) perform X-rays, CT, mammography and other diagnostic imaging in hospitals, imaging centers and physicians' offices. The BLS puts the median radiologic technologist at $77,660 (May 2024), with the top 10% above $107,000. An associate degree plus certification is the standard entry path, and cross-training in CT, MRI or interventional imaging tends to raise pay.
Where a radiologic technologist's paycheck goes
On the $77,660 median, a single rad tech sits in the 22% federal bracket after the standard deduction, plus 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare. Most hospital systems offer a 403(b) or 401(k); contributions there go in the pre-tax field and lower your federal taxable income.
The highest-paying states for radiologic technologists
Wages run highest in California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon and Washington. California and Oregon pay well but tax heavily, so a strong role in no-tax Texas or Washington can leave you with more take-home.
Compare radiologic technologist pay with other careers
See how a rad tech compares with a registered nurse, a medical assistant or a physician assistant.
Questions
Radiologic Technologist Salary Calculator FAQ
How much does a radiologic technologist make in 2026?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports a median annual wage of $77,660 for radiologic technologists and technicians (May 2024). The top 10% earn over $107,000. Techs cross-trained in CT, MRI or mammography, or who work call and night shifts, typically earn the most.
What is a rad tech's take-home pay on $77,660?
A single radiologic technologist earning the $77,660 median takes home roughly $62,000 to $64,000 a year after federal income tax and FICA in a no-income-tax state, and a few thousand dollars less where state income tax applies. Enter your own salary and state above for an exact figure.
Do MRI and CT techs earn more than X-ray techs?
Usually yes. Adding CT, MRI, mammography or interventional credentials typically raises pay above the base radiography median, and travel contracts can pay even more. Enter your true annual salary, including shift and call differentials, for the most accurate take-home.
Which states pay radiologic technologists the most?
California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon and Washington report the highest average rad-tech wages. California and Oregon pair high pay with high state income tax, while a high-paying role in a no-tax state like Texas or Washington maximizes take-home.
- Sources: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook — Radiologic and MRI Technologists (median $77,660, May 2024) · IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32 · SSA 2026 wage base · State departments of revenue.
- 🔄 Last updated June 9, 2026 · Tax year 2026
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