Tired of feeling overworked and underpaid? Many X-Ray Techs feel underpaid in their permanent jobs while salaries in the right locations are skyrocketing. But here’s the truth: you don’t have to settle. What if you could swap those frustrating paychecks for adventure, earning top dollar while traveling the country?
This isn’t just another salary report—it’s your roadmap to higher earnings and more freedom. Whether you’re already a travel X-Ray Tech or considering making the switch, we’ve done the research for you.
At Advantis Medical, we specialize in connecting travel X-Ray Techs with the best-paying travel contracts. Using real salary data and industry insights, we’ve pinpointed the top 5 states and cities where travel X-Ray Tech salaries are the highest. Let’s explore these lucrative hotspots and map out your path to a more rewarding career today!
What is an X-Ray Tech?
X-Ray Techs in medical imaging take images of different body parts to help diagnose and treat an injury or illness. They are responsible for:
- Making sure the X-Ray machines are well-maintained and working correctly
- Using equipment and imaging safely
- Positioning patients correctly for imaging
- Injecting contrast media for specific tests
- Communicating with providers on test results
In contrast, MRI Techs require a deep understanding of MRI principles, cross-sectional anatomy, and specific imaging techniques, along with strong communication skills and adherence to safety standards with patients.
What is the Average X-Ray Tech Salary in the US?
According to the BLS, as of May 2023, the median annual wage for X-Ray Techs is $73,410, which equates to approximately $35.29 per hour.
Here are the top 5 paying states for X-Ray Techs.
State Annual Average Salary:
- California: $103,150
- Massachusetts: $93,270
- Hawaii: $92,170
- Oregon: $90,610
- Washington: $89,910
Remember to consider the cost of living when job hunting. California and Massachusetts are the top two highest-paying states, but the cost of living in these two states is much different.
Permanent vs Travel X-Ray Tech Salary
Like all areas of healthcare, contracted staff are oftentimes paid more than permanent staff. X-Ray Tech salary trends show a steady increase over the past few years. According to ZipRecruiter, the “Travel X-Ray Tech” job title averages an annual salary of $95,196.
With premium pay rates, travel comes with flexibility, new locations, and a resume that will impress any hiring manager if you decide to return to permanent.
What Affects an X-Ray Tech’s Salary?
X-Ray Tech salary is influenced by location, setting, demand, experience, and education. Southern states tend to have lower wages, but also a lower cost of living.
This is true for X-Ray Techs: Mississippi is the lowest-paying state at $53,660 and other southern region states with an average salary in the $50,000 – $65,000 range.
Job Growth
The BLS predicts X-Ray Tech positions will grow 6% over the current decade with 16,600 positions per year in the US. Higher demand leads to higher pay. As the population ages, chronic diseases will rise, and X-Rays, CT scans, mammograms, and more will be needed to detect cancer, autoimmune diseases, strokes, and arthritis, not to mention falls and injuries.
Place of Employment
X-Ray Techs can work in various healthcare facilities. According to the BLS, Hospitals have the highest level of employment for X-Ray Techs. Hospitals will employ a wide range of X-Ray Techs (entry-level to experienced) so there is a broader salary range.
Other potential work settings:
- Medical and Diagnostic Laboratories
- Offices of Physicians
- Outpatient Care Centers
- Federal, State and Local Government
Education and Accreditation
To become an X-Ray Tech, the educational requirements include an associate degree in Radiology from an accredited program which takes about 2 years to complete. There are options to pursue higher education like a bachelor’s or master’s degree which includes more advanced imaging techniques.
Some programs may require an internship which gives you additional on-the-job training. Students must then pass their state’s certification exam. More education will translate to higher pay.
Specialized Training and Certifications
X-Ray Techs may choose to specialize in a specific setting or type of imaging through various certification programs which could lead to higher pay. The American Registry of Radiologic Techs (ARRT) offers credentials in the following pathways:
- Bone densitometry
- Sonography
- Cardiac interventional radiology
- Mammography
- Nuclear medicine technology
Top States and Cities for X-Ray Tech Salaries
X-Ray Techs, also known as Radiologic Technologists and Technicians, play a crucial role in the medical field using imaging equipment to help diagnose and treat patients. Their salaries vary greatly depending on the state and city they work in.
A salary comparison across different locations can help highlight these differences. Here we’ll explore the top states and cities for X-Ray Tech salaries so you can get valuable insights if you’re considering a career in this field.
All of the numbers below are found in a May 2023 report by BLS.
Travel X-Ray Tech Salary California
California is one of the highest-paying states for X-Ray Techs, with an average salary of $103,150 per year, according to the BLS. The state’s large population, high demand for medical services, and higher cost of living contribute to a strong job market and higher salaries.
Cities like San Francisco, San Jose, and Los Angeles are particularly lucrative, with average annual salaries ranging from $100,000 to $131,000. California is a great destination to maximize your pay in radiology with a wide salary range to reflect the variation in salaries within the state..
Travel X-Ray Tech Salary Hawaii
Hawaii is another state where X-Ray Techs can get high salaries, with an average annual salary of $92,170 according to the BLS. The state’s dense population and high cost of living contribute to higher salaries.
Hawaii is a great option for X-Ray Techs looking for competitive pay with a big salary range.
Top 5 States for Travel X-Ray Techs
Travel X-Ray Techs get to travel to various states and cities and get paid well. Based on labor statistics and industry trends the top 5 states for travel techs are:
- California: With a high demand for skilled X-Ray Techs, top earners for Travel X-Ray Techs in California make up to $2,865/week according to ZipRecruiter. The state’s large population and advanced healthcare facilities make it a great destination for travel techs looking for top pay and vibrant living environments.
- Texas: As the second largest state in the US Texas offers many travel X-Ray Tech opportunities paying $1,705/week on average, and up to $2,705/week for top earners. Texas is known for its friendly communities, affordable living costs, and booming healthcare sector, making it a great option for travel techs.
- Florida: With its warm weather and beaches, Florida is a travel X-Ray Tech destination. Florida tends to pay lower than northern states, with an average weekly pay of $1,368 and up to $2,170/week for top earners. The state’s large and aging population means steady job opportunities.
- New York: The Empire State offers urban and rural experiences. Weekly pay for Travel X-Ray Techs in New York ranges from $2,002/week on average up to $3,176 a week for top earners. New York’s dense population and high cost of living mean higher paying contracts, making it a great option for those looking for competitive pay and city life.
- Arizona: With its natural beauty and outdoor recreation, Arizona is a great trave radl tech destination. Pay ranges from $1,718 – $2,589/week. Arizona’s growing healthcare industry and affordable living costs make it a good option for travel X-Ray Techs.
How to Get Paid More as a Travel X-Ray Tech
Travel X-Ray Techs can make more than staff due to the demand for their services and flexibility. Here’s how to get paid more as a travel X-Ray Tech:
Negotiate a competitive salary and benefits package when you sign your contract.
Tips for Success
- Get experience: The more experience you have the more you can make. Take on extra shifts or work in different settings to get more experience. This hands on experience is priceless and will pay off big time.
- Specialize: Specializing in a particular area like MRI or CT scanning can increase your pay. Advanced skills in these areas are in high demand and will get you higher pay rates.
- Choose high paying areas: Certain areas like California and New York pay more than others. Research and target these high paying areas to make a big difference in your overall earnings.
- Negotiate your contract: Don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself and make sure your compensation reflects the industry average.
- Overtime: Overtime can increase your earnings. Make sure to check your contract to see if overtime is available. Overtime pay can add a big bonus to your regular pay.
- Network: Network with other Travel X-Ray Techs and potential employers to stay informed about job opportunities and salary ranges. Building a professional network can also open doors to higher paying positions and career advancement.
Additional Perks for Travel X-Ray Techs
In addition to competitive pay, Travel X-Ray Techs can enjoy:
- Housing stipends: Travel X-Ray Tech assignments offer housing stipends or free accommodation so techs can save on living expenses. This benefit can reduce the cost of relocating and provide comfortable living arrangements.
- Meals and Incidentals: Assignments offer untaxed stipends for meals and incidentals which adds more take home pay.
- Travel reimbursement: Travel X-Ray Techs may be eligible for travel reimbursement covering expenses like flights, car rentals, and gas. This benefit helps offset the cost of moving between assignments and ensures techs can travel comfortably.
- Flexibility: Travel techs can have a flexible schedule with assignments ranging from 13 weeks to 6 months or more. This flexibility allows techs to balance work with personal interests and explore new locations at their own pace.
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FAQs – X Ray Tech Salary
What is the average travel X Ray tech salary in 2025?
In 2025, the average travel X Ray tech salary ranges from $2,000 to $2,700 per week, with some high-demand assignments paying over $3,000 weekly. Annual earnings can exceed $97,000, depending on location, experience, and certifications.
How much do X Ray techs make in top-paying states?
X Ray tech salary varies by state. Top-paying states like California, New York, and Hawaii offer average X Ray pay from $80,000 to over $100,000 annually, especially in major metro areas.
What factors influence X Ray tech pay?
Key factors affecting X Ray tech pay include geographic location, years of experience, certification level, and job setting. Travel roles typically offer higher compensation than permanent positions.
How to become a travel X Ray tech?
To become a travel X Ray tech, first earn an associate degree in radiologic technology from an accredited program. Then, pass your state licensing or ARRT certification exam and apply through a travel healthcare staffing agency.
How to increase your X Ray tech salary?
You can boost your X Ray tech salary by gaining experience, pursuing specialty certifications (like mammography or cardiac imaging), and working in high-demand travel roles or major urban areas.
Is travel X Ray tech pay higher than permanent positions?
Yes. Travel X Ray tech salary is often $20,000–$30,000 higher annually than permanent positions due to factors like short-term demand, housing stipends, and location premiums.
