How to Become a Nuclear Medicine Technologists in California
Nuclear Medicine Technologists in California earn a median salary of $155,220/year, which is 60% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~6.8%. After taxes and rent, a nuclear medicine technologists takes home approximately $7,444/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a nuclear medicine technologists can afford in California
Becoming a nuclear medicine technologists in California
Meet education requirements
Nuclear Medicine Technologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many nuclear medicine technologists positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for nuclear medicine technologistss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 1,380 nuclear medicine technologists. The highest concentrations are in San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara and San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont.
Nuclear Medicine Technologists salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara | $184K | $88.38/hr | 80 |
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $183K | $87.76/hr | 170 |
| Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom | $167K | $80.3/hr | 120 |
| Fresno | $157K | $75.56/hr | 40 |
| San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad | $156K | $75.09/hr | 100 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $145K | $69.8/hr | 460 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $135K | $64.85/hr | 160 |
Nuclear Medicine Technologists salary range in California
Nuclear Medicine Technologists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a nuclear medicine technologists make in California?▼
The median nuclear medicine technologists salary in California is $155,220 per year ($74.62/hr). This is 60% above the national median of $97,020. Salaries range from $118,370 to $185,250.
What are the requirements to become a nuclear medicine technologists in California?▼
Nuclear Medicine Technologists positions in California typically require Bachelor's degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a nuclear medicine technologists afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $155,220, a nuclear medicine technologists in California would take home approximately $8,856/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 15.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for nuclear medicine technologists in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for nuclear medicine technologists in California are San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara ($183,820), San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($182,530), Sacramento-Roseville-Folsom ($167,020). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for nuclear medicine technologists?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 6.8%. On a $155,220 salary, this means roughly $10,573/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.