Top 5 States & Cities with the Highest X-Ray Tech Salaries to Check Out

X-ray techs take images of different body parts to help diagnose and treat an injury or illness. Some of their responsibilities include:

• Make sure the x-ray machines are in working order
• Follow safe protocols when using equipment and taking images
• Position patients for imaging
• Injecting contrast media for specific tests
• Communicating with providers on test results

Rad techs require a deep understanding of X-Ray principles, cross-sectional anatomy and specific imaging techniques, strong communication skills and adherence to safety protocols when working with patients.

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According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report, the median yearly salary for x-ray techs is $61,980, or slightly under $30 per hour. A more recent statistic from ZipRecruiter indicates this has decreased in 2023, with an average annual salary of $54,809.  

Here are the top five paying states for x-ray technicians according to ZipRecruiter.  

ZipRecruiter also reports the highest-paying cities for x-ray technicians, making narrowing your search easier. Although California didn’t make the list of the top five paying states (they are almost halfway down the list!), cities located there dominate.  

All information is accurate as of 01/26/2023.

As always, when job-hunting, keep in mind the cost of living. While Tennessee and Hawaii top the list as the highest-paying states, the cost of living between these two states couldn’t be more different.

Like most fields in healthcare, contracted staff get paid more than permanent staff. According to ZipRecruiter, the job title of “Travel X-Ray Technologist” averages an annual salary of $97,697. A nearly $30,000 difference from the annual salary of the highest paying city for a permanent x-ray tech. With premium pay rates, travel opportunities come with flexibility, exploring new locations, and a resume that will impress any hiring manager if you choose to return to a permanent position.

Location, setting, demand, experience, and education all influence pay. Southern states frequently have lower wages for medical workers. This is true with x-ray techs, as the lowest paying state is Georgia at $38,794, North Carolina at $40,976, and Florida at $41,167.  

Job Growth  

The BLS predicts X-Ray Tech positions will grow 6% over the current decade and add about 16,600 jobs per year to the healthcare field in the US. The more demand for a job the more competitive the pay becomes. As our population ages chronic diseases will rise and x-rays, CT scans, mammograms and more will be needed for cancer, autoimmune diseases, strokes, arthritis and falls and injuries.

Work Environment 

X-ray techs can find employment in various healthcare facilities. According to the BLS, hospitals are the largest employer of X-Ray Tech with 58% of jobs. Hospitals are more likely to employ a wide range of x-ray techs (from entry-level to experienced), so there is a broader salary range.  . Educational programs that support career advancement and flexibility within the nursing career like transfer friendly RN to BSN programs are important for those who want to move up in their career.

Other potential work settings include:  

• Physician offices - 19%
• Medical and diagnostic laboratories - 7%
• Outpatient care centers - 7%  
• Federal government - 3%  

Education and Accreditation

To become an X-Ray Tech the minimum education required is an Associate’s 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 you to complete an internship which gives you on the job training. Students then must pass their state’s certification exam. Advances in education will translate to higher pay rates.

Years of Experience

Years of hands on experience is valuable to an employer. For example x-ray techs work with patients who have mobility issues due to injury or illness so they must have excellent communication skills, compassion and knowledge to prepare patients and position them to get images while keeping them safe. Always highlight your experience when negotiating for a higher salary.

Specialized Training and Certifications  

X-ray technicians may choose to specialize in a specific setting or type of imaging which could offer higher pay. The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (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 are an important part of the medical field using imaging equipment to help diagnose and treat patients. Salaries vary greatly depending on the state and city they work in. Here we will look at the top states and cities for X-ray tech salaries so you can make an informed decision if you are considering this career.

California

California is one of the highest paying states for x-ray techs with an average salary of $83,610 per year according to the BLS. The state’s large population and high demand for medical services creates a strong job market and competitive salaries. Cities like San Francisco, San Jose and Los Angeles are the most lucrative with average annual salaries ranging from $90,000 to over $100,000. This is a great place to be if you want to maximize your earnings in radiology.

New York

New York is another state where x-ray techs can get high salaries with an average annual salary of $76,510 according to the BLS. The state’s high population and cost of living plays a big role in driving up salaries. In cities like New York City, Buffalo and Rochester x-ray techs can earn average annual salaries from $80,000 to over $90,000. This is a great option for radiologic technologists who want competitive pay.

Florida

Florida is a popular state for x-ray techs with its large and aging population which increases the demand for medical services. The average annual salary for x-ray techs in Florida is $69,610 according to the BLS. Cities like Miami, Tampa and Orlando offer competitive salaries with average annual salaries from $65,000 to over $75,000. The growing need for healthcare services in Florida makes it a good state to be in if you’re pursuing a career in radiology.

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How do I become an x-ray tech?

You need to have at least an associate’s degree in radiology and pass your state’s radiology licensure exam.

What is the average x-ray tech salary?

2023: $54,809

What benefits do x-ray techs get?

Vacation time, bonuses, health insurance, paid sick leave and retirement savings package.

What other careers are like x-ray tech?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), radiation therapy, mammography, nuclear medicine and cardiovascular radiology are all related to x-ray technology. Ray ID is a unique identifier for requests that require additional verification, it’s used in system responses for further assistance or support.

At Advantis Medical Staffing, we take great pride in our commitment to caring for clinicians. We are dedicated to connecting passionate professionals with the best travel nursing jobs available nationwide while providing an exceptional service that promotes a trusted partnership for life. It’s no wonder we are ranked as the #1 travel nurse agency by nurses themselves!

If you’re interested in embarking on your travel journey with Advantis Medical, we are eager to match you with your next dream job. You can work with one of our dedicated Pro Recruiters or express your interest in specific jobs directly on our job pages.

Start your next adventure today by searching for exclusive travel X-Ray Tech jobs with Advantis Medical!