Radiation therapists administer radiation treatments to cancer patients under the direction of radiation oncologists.
They operate linear accelerators and other radiation equipment, position patients, and monitor treatment delivery.
As of 2026, the median annual wage for radiation therapists is approximately $91,620 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, making it one of the higher-paying allied health professions accessible with a two- to four-year degree.
For comparison across the allied health spectrum, a cardiac sonographer salary (~$65,130), a dietitian salary (~$69,680), and an audiologist salary (~$82,680) illustrate where radiation therapy falls in the broader healthcare technician pay range.
Radiation Therapist Salary Overview
The BLS reports a median annual wage of approximately $91,620 for radiation therapists. The bottom 10% earn approximately $62,000, while the top 10% earn more than $133,000. Hospitals are the primary employer of radiation therapists and typically pay the most.
Radiation therapists earn substantially more than many allied health roles with similar entry-level education requirements.
A medical assistant salary (~$39,000) and a CNA salary (~$38,000) illustrate the dramatic pay difference between direct care support roles and the specialized clinical technology that radiation therapists operate.
The occupational therapist salary (~$96,370) is the closest peer at a similar level of clinical skill.
For a complete breakdown of how any hourly wage in these ranges translates to annual, monthly, weekly, and after-tax take-home, see our hourly-to-annual salary conversion guides.
Salary by Work Setting
Hospitals and cancer treatment centers are the primary employers of radiation therapists.
Outpatient radiation oncology facilities and physician offices also employ radiation therapists.
Hospital-based positions typically offer higher wages and comprehensive benefits, while outpatient settings may offer more regular daytime schedules.
Radiation therapists working in academic medical centers with active oncology research programs may benefit from exposure to advanced technologies (proton therapy, MR-guided radiation) that can increase specialized expertise and long-term earning potential.
Geographic location also matters: the cost of living in California is high, but California radiation therapists typically earn some of the highest wages nationally.
Certification Requirements
Radiation therapists must be certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in radiation therapy. This requires graduating from an accredited radiation therapy program, passing the ARRT exam, and maintaining continuing education credits for annual registration renewal.
Some radiation therapists pursue additional certifications in specialized modalities such as medical dosimetry, which involves treatment planning calculations.
Dosimetrists typically earn above the radiation therapist median.
All radiation therapy professionals should consider salary negotiation strategies when entering new positions, as hospitals frequently have flexibility in starting salary for credentialed staff above the posted offer.
Job Outlook
The BLS projects employment of radiation therapists to grow by approximately 5% through 2032.
Steady demand from cancer treatment needs among an aging population supports continued employment opportunities.
Advances in radiation therapy technology also create demand for therapists trained on newer treatment systems.
Radiation therapists earning above the national median should have a clear financial plan.
Contributing the maximum to a Roth IRA each year and maximizing 401(k) contributions — especially if the employer offers a match — can build substantial wealth over a 30+ year career.
Periodic check-ins against average net worth by age benchmarks help gauge financial progress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median salary for a radiation therapist in 2026?
The median annual wage is approximately $91,620 per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What education is needed to become a radiation therapist?
An associate or bachelor's degree in radiation therapy from an accredited program, followed by ARRT certification, is the standard educational pathway.
Are radiation therapists exposed to radiation themselves?
Radiation therapists wear dosimetry badges to monitor radiation exposure and follow strict safety protocols. Occupational radiation exposure is closely monitored and regulated to maintain safe levels.
Where do radiation therapists earn the most?
California, Connecticut, and Alaska tend to report the highest wages for radiation therapists.
States with large hospital systems and higher costs of living typically offer above-median pay.
Radiation therapists evaluating Alaska positions should review the cost of living in Alaska, which is elevated despite strong federal and hospital wages.
Is radiation therapy a growing field?
The BLS projects approximately 5% growth through 2032.
Cancer incidence and the expansion of radiation oncology services support ongoing demand for qualified radiation therapists.
Those who build expertise in advanced technologies like proton therapy may see above-average salary growth as these modalities expand.
Sources & References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Radiation Therapists — https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiation-therapists.htm
- BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics — Radiation Therapists — https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes291124.htm
- American Registry of Radiologic Technologists — RT Certification — https://www.arrt.org/pages/earn-arrt-credentials/initial-requirements/radiation-therapy
Last updated: April 27, 2026