Radiologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Radiologists out-earn Registered Nurses by $323K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Radiologists land at $420,860 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: radiologist programs typically require doctoral or professional degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Radiologists is Minnesota ($708,340); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Radiologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Radiologists or Registered Nurses?
Radiologists earn more nationally. The median is $420,860 for Radiologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $323K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Radiologists or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses has the better 10-year outlook at 4.9% projected growth, compared to 2.7% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Radiologists or Registered Nurses?
Radiologists typically requires doctoral or professional degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Radiologists get paid the most?
Minnesota is the top-paying state for Radiologists at $708,340/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Radiologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In Minnesota, Radiologists earn $708,340 vs. $101,510 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.