Dearborn vs Grand Rapids: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Dearborn, MI and Grand Rapids, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dearborn, MI | Grand Rapids, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,210 | $81,452▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.04 | $39.16▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,454 | $62,763▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $64,825 | $66,438▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $102,398▲ | $83,474 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,842▲ | $98,530 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 860▲ |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Dearborn.
The salary gap between Dearborn and Grand Rapids is $242 (0.30%). Grand Rapids's median is -3.43% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dearborn spans $65,388,Grand Rapids spans $35,767. Dearborn 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, Dearborn ($87,135 effective) pays 2.21% more than Grand Rapids ($85,249 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dearborn if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,842)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,135)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,452/year)
- ✓Larger job market (860 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Dearborn grew 21.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 46.9% growth in Grand Rapids over the same period.
Dearborn, MI
$63,679 (2024) → $77,130 (2025)
Grand Rapids, MI
$52,650 (2019) → $77,360 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dearborn, MI
Grand Rapids, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Dearborn or Grand Rapids?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dearborn and Grand Rapids?
Should I relocate from Dearborn to Grand Rapids as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Dearborn vs Grand Rapids?
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