Hackensack vs Trenton: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Hackensack, NJ and Trenton, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hackensack, NJ | Trenton, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,240 | $100,889▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.82 | $48.51▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,710 | $78,030▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,758 | $83,569▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $110,530▲ | $105,564 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $134,204▲ | $119,336 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 220▲ |
Verdict
Trenton, NJ offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hackensack.
The salary gap between Hackensack and Trenton is $7,649 (8.20%). Trenton's median is +19.61% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hackensack spans $64,494,Trenton spans $41,306. Hackensack 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, Trenton ($97,780 effective) pays 20.81% more than Hackensack ($80,938 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hackensack if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,204)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,889/year)
- ✓Larger job market (220 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,780)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Hackensack grew -2.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.6% growth in Trenton over the same period.
Hackensack, NJ
$90,644 (2024) → $88,555 (2025)
Trenton, NJ
$71,180 (2019) → $95,820 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hackensack, NJ
Trenton, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Hackensack or Trenton?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hackensack and Trenton?
Should I relocate from Hackensack to Trenton as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Hackensack vs Trenton?
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