Rapid City vs Spearfish: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Rapid City, SD and Spearfish, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rapid City, SD | Spearfish, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $70,765 | $75,053▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $34.02 | $36.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,698 | $53,121▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $60,552 | $64,748▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $85,790 | $88,570▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,342▲ | $102,157 |
| Total Employed | 130▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Rapid City and Spearfish are closely matched on overall radiologic technologist and technician compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Rapid City and Spearfish is $4,288 (6.06%). Spearfish's median is -11.02% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rapid City spans $49,644,Spearfish spans $49,036. Rapid City 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, Spearfish ($80,876 effective) pays 1.90% 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 Rapid City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($102,342)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Spearfish if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($75,053/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $80,876)
- ✓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 Rapid City grew 23.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.2% growth in Spearfish over the same period.
Rapid City, SD
$54,260 (2019) → $67,210 (2025)
Spearfish, SD
$55,168 (2024) → $71,282 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rapid City, SD
Spearfish, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Rapid City or Spearfish?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rapid City and Spearfish?
Should I relocate from Rapid City to Spearfish as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Rapid City vs Spearfish?
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