Elk River vs Rochester: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Elk River, MN and Rochester, MN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Elk River, MN | Rochester, MN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,399 | $84,579▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $39.14 | $40.66▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,202 | $81,831▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $68,136 | $84,579▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $96,617 | $111,713▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,647▲ | $111,713 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 720▲ |
Verdict
Rochester, MN offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Elk River.
The salary gap between Elk River and Rochester is $3,180 (3.91%). Rochester's median is +0.27% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Elk River spans $59,445,Rochester spans $29,882. Elk River 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, Rochester ($93,127 effective) pays 12.69% more than Elk River ($82,639 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Elk River if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,647)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,579/year)
- ✓Larger job market (720 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $93,127)
- ✓You prefer the Minnesota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Elk River grew 5.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 5.8% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Elk River, MN
$73,343 (2024) → $77,309 (2025)
Rochester, MN
$75,900 (2019) → $80,330 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Elk River, MN
Rochester, MN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Elk River or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Elk River and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Elk River to Rochester as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Elk River vs Rochester?
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