Grand Rapids vs Traverse City: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Grand Rapids, MI and Traverse City, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Grand Rapids, MI | Traverse City, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $81,452▲ | $77,167 |
| Hourly Rate | $39.16▲ | $37.10 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,763▲ | $55,269 |
| 25th Percentile | $66,438▲ | $62,271 |
| 75th Percentile | $83,474 | $91,624▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,530 | $105,568▲ |
| Total Employed | 860▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Grand Rapids, MI offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Traverse City.
The salary gap between Grand Rapids and Traverse City is $4,285 (5.55%). 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 Grand Rapids spans $35,767,Traverse City spans $50,299. Traverse City has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologic technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Rapids ($85,249 effective) pays 2.96% more than Traverse City ($82,797 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Grand Rapids if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($81,452/year)
- ✓Larger job market (860 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $85,249)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Traverse City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,568)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Grand Rapids grew 46.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.2% growth in Traverse City over the same period.
Grand Rapids, MI
$52,650 (2019) → $77,360 (2025)
Traverse City, MI
$59,976 (2024) → $73,290 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Grand Rapids, MI
Traverse City, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Grand Rapids or Traverse City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Grand Rapids and Traverse City?
Should I relocate from Grand Rapids to Traverse City as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Grand Rapids vs Traverse City?
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