Mitchell vs Rapid City: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Mitchell, SD and Rapid City, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mitchell, SD | Rapid City, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $74,512▲ | $70,765 |
| Hourly Rate | $35.82▲ | $34.02 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $54,118▲ | $52,698 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,673▲ | $60,552 |
| 75th Percentile | $88,874▲ | $85,790 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,944▲ | $102,342 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Mitchell, SD offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rapid City.
The salary gap between Mitchell and Rapid City is $3,747 (5.29%). Mitchell's median is -11.66% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mitchell spans $48,826,Rapid City spans $49,644. Rapid 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, Mitchell ($80,293 effective) pays 1.16% more than Rapid City ($79,369 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mitchell if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($74,512/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,944)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $80,293)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Mitchell grew 29.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.9% growth in Rapid City over the same period.
Mitchell, SD
$54,770 (2024) → $70,768 (2025)
Rapid City, SD
$54,260 (2019) → $67,210 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Mitchell, SD
Rapid City, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Mitchell or Rapid City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Mitchell and Rapid City?
Should I relocate from Mitchell to Rapid City as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Mitchell vs Rapid City?
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