Introduction
If you’re thinking about becoming a radiology tech, one of the first questions you might have is: “How much does a radiology tech make?” The radiology tech salary can vary based on experience, location, and specialty. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about radiology tech salary, including travel radiology tech salary, interventional radiology tech salary, and entry level radiology tech salary. We’ll also look at the radiology tech salary Texas to see how location affects pay.
What Is a Radiology Tech?
A radiology tech, also called a radiologic technologist, performs medical imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans. They work with doctors to help diagnose illnesses and injuries. Since this job requires special training, the radiology tech salary is usually higher than many other healthcare support roles.
Average Radiology Tech Salary in 2024
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average radiology tech salary is around 68,450peryear∗∗(about∗∗68,450peryear∗∗(about∗∗32.91 per hour). However, pay can range from 48,000toover48,000toover100,000 depending on different factors.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Entry level radiology tech salary: 48,000−48,000−55,000
- Mid-career radiology tech salary: 60,000−60,000−75,000
- Experienced radiology tech salary: 80,000−80,000−100,000+
Factors That Affect Radiology Tech Salary
Several things can change how much a radiology tech earns. Let’s look at the biggest factors:
1. Experience Level
- Entry level radiology tech salary starts lower but increases with experience.
- Techs with 5+ years of experience earn 20-30% more than beginners.
2. Location (State & City)
Where you work plays a huge role in pay. For example:
- Radiology tech salary Texas: 65,000−65,000−85,000
- California & New York pay $80,000+ due to higher living costs.
- Rural areas may pay less but have lower expenses.
3. Education & Certifications
- Techs with advanced certifications (like MRI or CT specialties) earn 10-20% more.
- A Bachelor’s degree can lead to higher-paying roles than an Associate’s degree.
4. Work Setting
- Hospitals usually pay more than clinics or private offices.
- Travel radiology tech salary is often higher due to demand.
5. Specialty Areas
Some radiology techs earn more by specializing:
- Interventional radiology tech salary: 75,000−75,000−95,000
- MRI Techs: 70,000−70,000−90,000
- CT Techs: 65,000−65,000−85,000
Travel Radiology Tech Salary
If you love adventure, becoming a travel radiology tech can be a great choice. These professionals work short-term jobs in different locations, often with higher pay to attract workers.
- Average travel radiology tech salary: 90,000−90,000−120,000 per year
- Benefits often include housing allowances, bonuses, and paid travel.
- Best for those who want higher pay and flexibility.
Interventional Radiology Tech Salary
Interventional radiology techs assist in minimally invasive procedures. Because this job requires extra training, the interventional radiology tech salary is usually higher.
- Average pay: 75,000−75,000−95,000
- Top earners make $100,000+ in busy hospitals.
Entry Level Radiology Tech Salary
Just starting out? The entry level radiology tech salary is lower but grows fast.
- First-year pay: 48,000−48,000−55,000
- After 2-3 years, most techs see a 5,000−5,000−10,000 increase.
Radiology Tech Salary Texas
Texas is a great state for radiology techs because of high demand and no state income tax.
- Average radiology tech salary Texas: 65,000−65,000−85,000
- Big cities like Houston & Dallas pay more than smaller towns.
- Travel radiology tech salary Texas can reach $100,000+.
Highest Paying States for Radiology Techs
Want to earn the most? These states pay the highest radiology tech salary:
- California: $95,000+
- Hawaii: $85,000+
- Massachusetts: $80,000+
- Oregon: $78,000+
- Texas: 65,000−65,000−85,000
How to Increase Your Radiology Tech Salary
Want to earn more? Try these tips:
✅ Get Certified – Specialize in MRI, CT, or interventional radiology.
✅ Gain Experience – More years = higher pay.
✅ Work Overtime – Many hospitals pay extra for extra shifts.
✅ Switch Locations – Moving to a higher-paying state can boost income.
✅ Become a Travel Tech – Travel radiology tech salary is often much higher.
FAQs About Radiology Tech Salary
1. What is the starting salary for a radiology tech?
The entry level radiology tech salary is around 48,000−48,000−55,000.
2. Do radiology techs make good money?
Yes! The average radiology tech salary is 68,450∗∗,withtopearnersmaking∗∗68,450∗∗,withtopearnersmaking∗∗100,000+.
3. Which radiology techs get paid the most?
Interventional radiology tech salary and travel radiology tech salary are among the highest.
4. How much do radiology techs make in Texas?
The radiology tech salary Texas ranges from 65,000−65,000−85,000.
5. Can I make $100,000 as a radiology tech?
Yes! With experience, certifications, or travel work, many techs reach $100,000+.
Conclusion
The radiology tech salary can be a great income, especially with experience and specialization. Whether you’re looking at entry level radiology tech salary, travel radiology tech salary, or interventional radiology tech salary, there are many ways to increase your earnings. States like Texas offer strong pay, with the radiology tech salary Texas being competitive.
If you want a stable, well-paying healthcare career, becoming a radiology tech is a smart choice!
