Poway vs San Francisco: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Poway, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Poway, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $113,372 | $149,280▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $54.51 | $71.78▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,170 | $94,740▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $95,541 | $124,727▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $135,190 | $178,582▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $158,060 | $186,153▲ |
| Total Employed | 8 | 2,850▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Poway.
The salary gap between Poway and San Francisco is $35,908 (31.67%). San Francisco's median is +76.98% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Poway spans $77,890,San Francisco spans $91,413. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($129,120 effective) pays 28.81% more than Poway ($100,240 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Poway if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($149,280/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($186,153)
- ✓Larger job market (2,850 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $129,120)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Poway grew -5.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.9% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Poway, CA
$113,544 (2024) → $107,676 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$104,360 (2019) → $141,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Poway or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Poway and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Poway to San Francisco as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Poway vs San Francisco?
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