Athens vs Columbus: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Athens, OH and Columbus, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Athens, OH | Columbus, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,514 | $84,443▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.79 | $40.60▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,374 | $60,752▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,888 | $69,260▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $91,811 | $96,719▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,597▲ | $106,038 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 1,780▲ |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Athens.
The salary gap between Athens and Columbus is $7,929 (10.36%). Columbus's median is +0.11% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Athens spans $50,223,Columbus spans $45,286. Athens has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Columbus ($88,451 effective) pays 4.85% more than Athens ($84,359 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Athens if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,597)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,443/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,780 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $88,451)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Athens grew 30.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.7% growth in Columbus over the same period.
Athens, OH
$55,543 (2024) → $72,670 (2025)
Columbus, OH
$58,650 (2019) → $80,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Athens, OH
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Athens or Columbus?
What is the hourly rate difference between Athens and Columbus?
Should I relocate from Athens to Columbus as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Athens vs Columbus?
Related Comparisons
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