Ann Arbor vs Waterford: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Ann Arbor, MI and Waterford, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ann Arbor, MI | Waterford, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,706▲ | $79,574 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.73▲ | $38.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,501▲ | $57,261 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,165▲ | $65,022 |
| 75th Percentile | $87,959 | $98,352▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $104,227 | $117,719▲ |
| Total Employed | 680▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Ann Arbor, MI offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterford.
The salary gap between Ann Arbor and Waterford is $5,132 (6.45%). Ann Arbor's median is +0.42% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ann Arbor spans $38,726,Waterford spans $60,458. Waterford has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologic technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Waterford ($85,380 effective) pays 1.68% more than Ann Arbor ($83,967 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ann Arbor if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,706/year)
- ✓Larger job market (680 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Waterford if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,719)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $85,380)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Ann Arbor grew 32.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.2% growth in Waterford over the same period.
Ann Arbor, MI
$60,910 (2019) → $80,450 (2025)
Waterford, MI
$61,846 (2024) → $75,576 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Ann Arbor, MI
Waterford, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Ann Arbor or Waterford?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ann Arbor and Waterford?
Should I relocate from Ann Arbor to Waterford as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Ann Arbor vs Waterford?
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Written by Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM)
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in radiologic technology. They specialize in mammography and work in an outpatient imaging center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.29% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM), a licensed radiologic technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov