Radiologic technologists — commonly called X-ray techs — perform diagnostic imaging procedures and are classified by the BLS under SOC 29-2034.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for radiologic technologists and technicians is approximately $67,180, which translates to roughly $32.30 per hour.
The BLS projects 6% employment growth for this occupation through 2032, adding approximately 14,800 new positions.
Key factors affecting X-ray tech compensation include modality specialization (radiography, CT, MRI, fluoroscopy), employer setting (hospital vs. outpatient imaging center vs. physician office), geographic region, years of experience, and ARRT certification status.
Technologists who cross-train in multiple imaging modalities or hold advanced certifications typically command higher salaries than those limited to general radiography.
Related imaging careers — including the radiology tech salary and ultrasound tech salary — offer useful salary comparisons for those evaluating allied health imaging careers.
X-Ray Tech Salary Overview (2026)
The BLS tracks radiologic technologists under SOC 29-2034.
The following wage distribution is sourced from BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics data as of 2026 and reflects the full spectrum of radiologic technologist roles including general radiography (X-ray), fluoroscopy, and related imaging modalities.
| Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 10th | $45,200 | $21.73 |
| 25th | $54,800 | $26.35 |
| 50th (Median) | $67,180 | $32.30 |
| 75th | $81,600 | $39.23 |
| 90th | $97,400 | $46.83 |
These figures encompass all radiologic technologists, including those who focus exclusively on plain radiography (X-ray) and those who perform additional modalities. All data is attributed to BLS OEWS and is subject to annual revision.
To see exactly how wages like $32 an hour translate to annual, monthly, and after-tax take-home, our guide on $32 an hour is how much a year breaks down every pay period. For other rates in the range above, browse our hourly wage conversion guide index.
X-Ray Tech Pay by Experience
Experience level is a primary driver of compensation for radiologic technologists.
Entry-level technologists completing their associate or bachelor's degree programs and securing initial ARRT certification typically start in the $45,000–$55,000 range.
Mid-career professionals with several years of experience and cross-training qualifications may earn $60,000–$75,000.
Senior techs in leadership, education, or highly specialized imaging roles commonly exceed $80,000.
| Experience Level | Typical Annual Range |
|---|---|
| Entry (0–2 years) | $45,000–$55,000 |
| Mid-Career (3–9 years) | $60,000–$75,000 |
| Senior (10+ years) | $78,000–$97,000+ |
X-Ray Tech Salary by State and Region
BLS state-level OEWS data shows significant geographic variation in radiologic technologist compensation. High cost-of-living states with strong hospital systems and large healthcare markets consistently offer the highest wages.
| State | Median Annual Wage |
|---|---|
| California | $95,300 |
| Hawaii | $89,100 |
| Massachusetts | $83,600 |
| Oregon | $82,700 |
| Washington | $81,200 |
Metro areas in California (San Francisco, Los Angeles) and the Pacific Northwest frequently represent the highest-paying markets.
Outpatient imaging centers in rural markets may pay 20%–30% below the national median, though some rural critical access hospitals offer competitive compensation to attract qualified technologists.
X-ray techs comparing California's high wages against its expenses should consult the cost of living in California guide, while those considering Washington should review the cost of living in Washington State.
Factors Affecting X-Ray Tech Pay
Several variables beyond experience and geography influence radiologic technologist compensation.
Employer Setting
Hospital-based radiologic technologists, particularly those in inpatient facilities or trauma centers with 24/7 imaging demands, typically earn more than those in outpatient imaging centers or physician offices.
Hospitals often offer shift differentials for evening, overnight, and weekend work that can add $3,000–$8,000 annually to base pay.
ARRT Certification and Licensure
The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification is the standard credential for radiologic technologists in the United States.
Most states require licensure, which typically requires passing the ARRT exam.
Technologists who maintain current ARRT certification and hold additional post-primary credentials are generally prioritized for higher-paying roles.
Education Level
While an associate's degree is the minimum entry point for most radiologic technology programs, bachelor's degree holders may qualify for supervisory, educational, or administrative roles that carry higher compensation.
Some advanced imaging or management positions explicitly prefer or require a four-year degree.
X-Ray Tech Career Outlook
According to BLS projections, employment for radiologic technologists is expected to grow 6% through 2032, driven primarily by the aging U.S. population requiring more diagnostic imaging, advances in imaging technology expanding the use of radiologic procedures, and growing outpatient and physician office imaging centers.
The BLS estimates approximately 14,800 openings per year for this occupation over the projection period.
Demand is expected to remain stable across all settings, with outpatient centers growing faster than hospital settings.
Technologists with multiple modality certifications and flexibility across imaging environments are expected to have the strongest job prospects.
For radiologists at the physician level, see the radiologist salary data, which highlights the earnings potential of advanced medical imaging careers.
X-ray techs building financial security on their income should explore salary negotiation strategies and appropriate savings benchmarks for their career stage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the median X-ray tech salary in 2026?
According to BLS data, the median annual wage for radiologic technologists (SOC 29-2034) is approximately $67,180, or about $32.30 per hour. This encompasses all radiologic technologist roles, including those focused on general X-ray imaging.
Is there a difference between an X-ray tech and a radiologic technologist?
The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'radiologic technologist' is the formal professional designation.
X-ray tech typically refers specifically to professionals performing plain radiography, while radiologic technologists may also perform CT, MRI, mammography, fluoroscopy, or other modalities depending on their certifications.
How does ARRT certification affect pay?
ARRT certification is the primary professional credential for this field and is required for licensure in most states.
Beyond the base R.T.(R) credential, technologists who earn additional ARRT post-primary certifications in CT, MRI, or interventional radiology typically command salary premiums of $5,000–$15,000 annually over single-modality peers.
Which states pay X-ray techs the most?
According to BLS state-level data, California, Hawaii, Massachusetts, Oregon, and Washington typically offer the highest median wages for radiologic technologists.
California in particular stands out, with median wages often exceeding $90,000 annually in many metropolitan markets.
Before relocating, techs should also account for the cost of living in Colorado or other western states where wages are competitive but housing costs vary significantly.
What is the job outlook for X-ray techs?
The BLS projects 6% employment growth for radiologic technologists through 2032, faster than the average for all occupations. Approximately 14,800 openings are expected annually. Aging population demographics and expanded outpatient imaging facilities are primary growth drivers.
Sources & References
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Outlook Handbook: Radiologic and MRI Technologists. Updated 2024. — https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: SOC 29-2034. May 2023. — https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes292034.htm
- O*NET OnLine. Radiologic Technologists (29-2034.01). National Center for O*NET Development. — https://www.onetonline.org/link/summary/29-2034.01
Last updated: April 27, 2026