Radiography Tech Salary

Entry-Level Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary in Northfield, MN: $58,025 (2026)

Quick Answer:New radiologic technologists and technicians entering the Northfield, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $58,025 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2034, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Northfield's local price level (BEA RPP 98.51% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $58,909 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($79,325) within a few years of clinical practice.

$58,025
Starting Salary
$27.90/hr
Starting Hourly
$58,025
Entry Level
$79,325
Career Median Target

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

Radiologic Technologist and Technician Entry Level Salary in Northfield, MN — 2026 est., based on 2025 BLS
Northfield, MN radiologic technologist and technician entry level salary overview (2026 est., based on 2025 BLS)

In 2026, the entry-level radiologic technologist and technician salary in Northfield is projected to start at approximately $58,025. This starting figure represents the lower end of the salary spectrum, with realistic expectations showing a path toward the median salary of $79,325 within a few years of gaining experience. For new graduates, there is potential for salary growth as they move to the 25th percentile at $64,892 and can ultimately reach the median with dedication and skill development. Given Northfield's steady healthcare demand, particularly in imaging services, this city currently presents a favorable market for recent graduates entering the field.

About the Northfield Market

Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($76,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

Career Earnings Timeline in Northfield

Year 0-2

New Graduate

$58,025/yr
Year 2-5

Early Career

$64,892/yr
Year 5-10

Mid Career

$79,325/yr
Year 10+

Experienced

$94,897/yr

Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Northfield

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for radiologic technologist and technicians in Northfield. The median salary is $79,325, compared to the national median of $84,348.$52.2K$68.1K$83.9K$99.7K$115.6K$58.0K10th Pctl$64.9K25th Pctl$79.3KMedian$94.9K75th Pctl$110.0K90th PctlUS Median$84.3K

Entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians in Northfield, MN typically start between $58,025 and $64,892 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $52,023 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $79,3255.96% below the national median.

Source: BLS OEWS projected to 2026. Percentiles reflect the distribution of radiologic technologist and technician pay in the Northfield metro area.

Return on Investment

$28,000
Avg MN Program Cost
$58,025
Starting Salary
48.26%
Cost-to-Salary Ratio
<1 yr
Payback Estimate

The average radiologic technology program cost in Minnesota of $28,000 represents just 48.26% of the starting radiologic technologist and technician pay ($58,025/year) in Northfield. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.

Program cost estimates based on JRCERT-accredited radiography program data and state workforce commission reports. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution type (community college vs. private university).

RT Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Northfield

  • 1Research the Northfield market: entry-level radiologic technologist and technician pay ranges from $58,025 to $64,892, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
  • 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the radiologic technology field — employers in MN often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
  • 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Northfield, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
  • 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Northfield for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
  • 5Northfield's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.

Radiologic Technologist and Technician Compensation Range

The radiologic technologist and technician wage spread in Northfield is $52,023 ( 89.66%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $58,025, experienced hygienists can earn up to $110,048.

Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.

2019 BLS Actual

$40,835

2025 BLS Actual

$55,110

2026 Current Est.

$58,025

2019–2027 Growth

+49.6%

Salary Trajectory for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in Northfield (20192027)

2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.29% projection.

BLS Actual Estimated Projected
Salary trajectory chart for radiologic technologists and technicians in Northfield. Baseline $40,835 in 2025, projected to $61,095 by 2027.$36.8K$43.9K$51.0K$58.1K$65.1K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$40.8K$41.5K$46.1K$47.0K$49.2K$50.4K$55.1K$58.0K$61.1K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$40,835Actual
2020$41,524Actual
2021$46,122Actual
2022$47,018Actual
2023$49,243Actual
2024$50,414Actual
2025$55,110Actual
2026(current)$58,025Estimated
2027$61,095Projected

Entry-level radiologic technologist and technician compensation (10th percentile) in Northfield, MN grew 35.0% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $40,835 in 2019 to $55,110 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $61,095. New graduates entering the Northfield job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.

Note: Historical values (20192025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Northfield metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 20262026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.29% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.

Starting Your radiologic technology Career in Northfield

Employers in Northfield that typically hire new radiologic technologist and technician graduates include local hospital systems which often provide opportunities for paid cross-training in specialties like CT, MRI, and mammography during the first year or two of employment. Outpatient imaging chains are also significant recruiters but may favor candidates with additional modality training. Obtaining credentials from a JRCERT-accredited program, achieving ARRT national registration in radiography (R), as well as state-specific licenses when necessary, can positively influence starting pay rates in Minnesota. Entry-level professionals should aim for cross-training as a strategy to enhance their career trajectory and salary potential, as pure radiography roles are experiencing increased compression at the lower end of the wage scale. Those who strategically pursue specialization can expect to see earnings rise significantly in their first three years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting salary for radiologic technologists and technicians in Northfield in 2026?

Entry-level radiologic technologists and technicians in Northfield start at approximately $58,025/year (10th percentile), based on estimated 2026 salary (projected from 2025 BLS data at 5.29% annual growth). This is the typical range for new graduates with less than 1 year of clinical experience. The starting hourly equivalent is approximately $27.90/hour for full-time work. Starting pay depends on the practice type (private vs. large organization), patient volume, location within the metro area, and whether the position includes benefits.

How fast do radiologic technologist and technician salaries grow in Northfield?

Most radiologic technologists and technicians in Northfield progress from the entry-level salary of $58,025 to the area median of $79,325 within 3–5 years of clinical experience. Top earners with specializations and certifications reach $110,048 (90th percentile). The biggest salary jumps typically come in years 2–5 as clinical skills develop, and again when obtaining advanced certifications or expanded-function credentials. Salary growth after 10 years tends to plateau unless moving into management or education roles.

Is radiologic technology school worth it in Northfield?

With a starting salary of $58,025/year in Northfield and typical program costs ranging from $20,000–$80,000 for the required degree, graduates can expect a strong return on investment. Most new radiologic technologists and technicians recoup their tuition within 1–3 years of working full-time. The profession also offers excellent work-life balance, flexible scheduling, low unemployment rates, and growing demand driven by an aging population's care needs.

What do new radiologic technologists and technicians make right out of school in Northfield?

New radiologic technology graduates in Northfield typically start near the 10th percentile at $58,025/year, or approximately $27.90/hour. Starting pay varies based on the practice type, patient volume, geographic location within the metro area, and whether the compensation package includes benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions. Graduates with internships at high-production practices often secure higher starting offers.

How do I become a radiologic technologist and technician in Minnesota?

To become a licensed radiologic technologist and technician in Minnesota, you typically need an associate's degree in radiologic technology or a related field is required., then pass the required national and state licensing examinations. Most states, including Minnesota, also require a clinical licensing exam. After obtaining licensure, you must maintain it through continuing education credits. Some radiologic technologists and technicians pursue advanced degrees for career advancement into education, research, or public health roles.

Related Pages

Nearby Cities in Minnesota

JL

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.

Clinically reviewed by Marisol Patel, RT(R), BSData verified by Samuel Kim, RT(R)(CT), MHA

Methodology & Data Source

Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new radiologic technology graduates. A 5.29% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Northfield. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Northfield is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).

View estimation methodology

2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.29%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for radiologic technologist and technicians (SOC 29-2034).

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

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