Detroit vs Kalamazoo: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Detroit, MI and Kalamazoo, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Kalamazoo, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,631 | $82,274▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.24 | $39.56▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $60,321 | $62,269▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $66,870 | $67,459▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $90,455▲ | $87,822 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,785▲ | $102,647 |
| Total Employed | 3,150▲ | 210 |
Verdict
Detroit and Kalamazoo are closely matched on overall radiologic technologist and technician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Detroit and Kalamazoo is $643 (0.79%). Kalamazoo's median is -2.46% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $46,464,Kalamazoo spans $40,378. Detroit 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, Kalamazoo ($86,750 effective) pays 6.59% more than Detroit ($81,388 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,785)
- ✓Larger job market (3,150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Kalamazoo if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($82,274/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,750)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Detroit grew 31.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 25.6% growth in Kalamazoo over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$59,100 (2019) → $77,530 (2025)
Kalamazoo, MI
$62,200 (2019) → $78,140 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Kalamazoo, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Detroit or Kalamazoo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Kalamazoo?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Kalamazoo as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Detroit vs Kalamazoo?
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