Los Angeles vs Merced: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Merced, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Merced, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,745▲ | $106,764 |
| Hourly Rate | $54.69▲ | $51.33 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,459▲ | $60,089 |
| 25th Percentile | $91,992▲ | $87,643 |
| 75th Percentile | $140,499▲ | $138,509 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $163,052 | $167,622▲ |
| Total Employed | 6,450▲ | 80 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Merced.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Merced is $6,981 (6.54%). Los Angeles's median is +34.85% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $95,593,Merced spans $107,533. Merced 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, Merced ($108,638 effective) pays 8.47% more than Los Angeles ($100,158 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($113,745/year)
- ✓Larger job market (6,450 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Merced if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,622)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $108,638)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Los Angeles grew 31.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 5.1% growth in Merced over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$82,110 (2019) → $108,030 (2025)
Merced, CA
$96,500 (2021) → $101,400 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Merced, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Los Angeles or Merced?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Merced?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Merced as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Los Angeles vs Merced?
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