Bend vs Salem: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Bend, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bend, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,817▲ | $106,954 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.32▲ | $51.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,494 | $81,368▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $94,287▲ | $88,644 |
| 75th Percentile | $117,377 | $125,664▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,160▲ | $130,149 |
| Total Employed | 150 | 240▲ |
Verdict
Bend, OR offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Bend and Salem is $1,863 (1.74%). Bend's median is +29.01% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bend spans $51,666,Salem spans $48,781. Bend 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, Bend ($105,029 effective) pays 1.78% more than Salem ($103,189 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bend if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($108,817/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,160)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,029)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Larger job market (240 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Bend grew 68.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 40.5% growth in Salem over the same period.
Bend, OR
$61,380 (2019) → $103,350 (2025)
Salem, OR
$72,310 (2019) → $101,580 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Bend or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bend and Salem?
Should I relocate from Bend to Salem as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Bend vs Salem?
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