Carlsbad vs Riverside: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Carlsbad, CA and Riverside, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carlsbad, CA | Riverside, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,484▲ | $110,755 |
| Hourly Rate | $56.96▲ | $53.25 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,212▲ | $75,777 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,128▲ | $89,675 |
| 75th Percentile | $148,753▲ | $135,077 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $180,219▲ | $141,036 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 2,140▲ |
Verdict
Carlsbad, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Riverside.
The salary gap between Carlsbad and Riverside is $7,729 (6.98%). Carlsbad's median is +40.47% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carlsbad spans $96,007,Riverside spans $65,259. Carlsbad 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, Carlsbad ($104,760 effective) pays 0.68% more than Riverside ($104,052 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carlsbad if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($118,484/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($180,219)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,760)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Riverside if…
- ✓Larger job market (2,140 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Carlsbad grew -2.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Riverside over the same period.
Carlsbad, CA
$115,542 (2024) → $112,531 (2025)
Riverside, CA
$79,330 (2019) → $105,190 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carlsbad, CA
Riverside, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Carlsbad or Riverside?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carlsbad and Riverside?
Should I relocate from Carlsbad to Riverside as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Carlsbad vs Riverside?
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