Carol Stream vs Chicago: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Carol Stream, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carol Stream, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $77,198 | $86,485▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $37.11 | $41.58▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,664 | $63,311▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $65,350 | $71,534▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,236 | $104,616▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,851▲ | $111,765 |
| Total Employed | 10 | 5,650▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Carol Stream.
The salary gap between Carol Stream and Chicago is $9,287 (12.03%). Chicago's median is +2.53% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carol Stream spans $60,187,Chicago spans $48,454. Carol Stream 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, Chicago ($83,484 effective) pays 5.01% more than Carol Stream ($79,504 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carol Stream if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,851)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,485/year)
- ✓Larger job market (5,650 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $83,484)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Carol Stream grew 8.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.8% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Carol Stream, IL
$67,785 (2024) → $73,319 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$66,330 (2019) → $82,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carol Stream, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Carol Stream or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carol Stream and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Carol Stream to Chicago as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Carol Stream vs Chicago?
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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