Radiologic Technologists and Technicians vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Radiologic Technologists and Technicians by $17K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Radiologic Technologists and Technicians land at $80,110 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: radiologic technologists and technician programs typically require bachelor's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians is California ($121,260); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Radiologic Technologists and Technicians median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $80,110 for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $17K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses has the better 10-year outlook at 4.9% projected growth, compared to 4.3% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians or Registered Nurses?
Radiologic Technologists and Technicians typically requires bachelor's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Radiologic Technologists and Technicians get paid the most?
California is the top-paying state for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians at $121,260/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Radiologic Technologists and Technicians vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In California, Radiologic Technologists and Technicians earn $121,260 vs. $140,270 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.