East Chicago vs Fort Wayne: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between East Chicago, IN and Fort Wayne, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | East Chicago, IN | Fort Wayne, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $76,525 | $80,905▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $36.79 | $38.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,678 | $59,678▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $62,684 | $66,164▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $94,023▲ | $84,832 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,238▲ | $94,466 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 370▲ |
Verdict
Fort Wayne, IN offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to East Chicago.
The salary gap between East Chicago and Fort Wayne is $4,380 (5.72%). Fort Wayne's median is -4.08% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in East Chicago spans $55,560,Fort Wayne spans $34,788. East Chicago 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, Fort Wayne ($87,397 effective) pays 4.27% more than East Chicago ($83,817 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose East Chicago if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,238)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose Fort Wayne if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($80,905/year)
- ✓Larger job market (370 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,397)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in East Chicago grew 28.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 45.1% growth in Fort Wayne over the same period.
East Chicago, IN
$56,414 (2024) → $72,680 (2025)
Fort Wayne, IN
$52,950 (2019) → $76,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
East Chicago, IN
Fort Wayne, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: East Chicago or Fort Wayne?
What is the hourly rate difference between East Chicago and Fort Wayne?
Should I relocate from East Chicago to Fort Wayne as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in East Chicago vs Fort Wayne?
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