Hays vs Lawrence: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Hays, KS and Lawrence, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hays, KS | Lawrence, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $71,787▲ | $66,354 |
| Hourly Rate | $34.51▲ | $31.90 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $56,137▲ | $38,378 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,419▲ | $46,991 |
| 75th Percentile | $86,940▲ | $79,841 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,048▲ | $96,561 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Hays, KS offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lawrence.
The salary gap between Hays and Lawrence is $5,433 (8.19%). Hays's median is -14.89% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hays spans $44,911,Lawrence spans $58,183. Lawrence 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, Hays ($78,974 effective) pays 7.41% more than Lawrence ($73,528 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hays if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($71,787/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($101,048)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $78,974)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Lawrence if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Hays grew 29.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.4% growth in Lawrence over the same period.
Hays, KS
$52,767 (2024) → $68,180 (2025)
Lawrence, KS
$51,050 (2019) → $63,020 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lawrence, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Hays or Lawrence?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hays and Lawrence?
Should I relocate from Hays to Lawrence as a radiologic technologist and technician?
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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