Radiography Tech Salary

Entry-Level Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary in Norfolk, NE: $55,327 (2026)

Quick Answer:New radiologic technologists and technicians entering the Norfolk, NE job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $55,327 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2034, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Norfolk's local price level (BEA RPP 91.58% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $60,467 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($71,877) within a few years of clinical practice.

$55,327
Starting Salary
$26.60/hr
Starting Hourly
$55,327
Entry Level
$71,877
Career Median Target

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

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

A new graduate entering the field of radiologic technology in Norfolk, Nebraska, can expect a starting salary around $55,327 in 2026, which is considerably lower than the median annual salary for all radiologic technologists and technicians in the area, projected at $71,877. This gap illustrates the natural progression of salaries as early-career professionals gain experience. Over the first three to five years, the potential for salary growth is evident, with opportunities to reach $61,026, and eventually the median salary, as individuals gain skills and certifications. Given the currently positive job market for radiologic technologists in Norfolk, new graduates have reason to feel optimistic about their career prospects and salary advancements.

About the Norfolk Market

Salary estimated from Nebraska average ($66,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

Career Earnings Timeline in Norfolk

Year 0-2

New Graduate

$55,327/yr
Year 2-5

Early Career

$61,026/yr
Year 5-10

Mid Career

$71,877/yr
Year 10+

Experienced

$86,555/yr

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

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Norfolk

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for radiologic technologist and technicians in Norfolk. The median salary is $71,877, compared to the national median of $84,348.$49.8K$63.8K$77.7K$91.7K$105.7K$55.3K10th Pctl$61.0K25th Pctl$71.9KMedian$86.6K75th Pctl$100.6K90th PctlUS Median$84.3K

Entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians in Norfolk, NE typically start between $55,327 and $61,026 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $45,307 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $71,87714.79% below the national median.

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

Return on Investment

$20,000
Avg NE Program Cost
$55,327
Starting Salary
36.15%
Cost-to-Salary Ratio
<1 yr
Payback Estimate

The average radiologic technology program cost in Nebraska of $20,000 represents just 36.15% of the starting radiologic technologist and technician pay ($55,327/year) in Norfolk. 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 Norfolk

  • 1Research the Norfolk market: entry-level radiologic technologist and technician pay ranges from $55,327 to $61,026, 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 NE often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
  • 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Norfolk, 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 Norfolk for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
  • 5Norfolk's below-average 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 Norfolk is $45,307 ( 81.89%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $55,327, experienced hygienists can earn up to $100,634.

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

2019 BLS Actual

$38,936

2025 BLS Actual

$52,547

2026 Current Est.

$55,327

2019–2027 Growth

+49.6%

Salary Trajectory for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in Norfolk (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 Norfolk. Baseline $38,936 in 2025, projected to $58,254 by 2027.$35.1K$41.8K$48.6K$55.4K$62.1K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$38.9K$39.6K$44.0K$44.8K$47.0K$41.8K$52.5K$55.3K$58.3K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$38,936Actual
2020$39,593Actual
2021$43,977Actual
2022$44,831Actual
2023$46,952Actual
2024$41,822Actual
2025$52,547Actual
2026(current)$55,327Estimated
2027$58,254Projected

Entry-level radiologic technologist and technician compensation (10th percentile) in Norfolk, NE grew 35.0% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $38,936 in 2019 to $52,547 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $58,254. New graduates entering the Norfolk job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.

Note: Historical values (20192025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Norfolk 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 Norfolk

In Norfolk, entry-level radiologic technologist and technician positions are primarily available through local hospital systems, many of which actively recruit new graduates. These facilities often provide paid cross-training in advanced imaging modalities like CT or MRI during the first one to two years, positioning new graduates for higher remuneration down the line. To enhance their earning potential, new graduates should focus on earning credentials from JRCERT-accredited programs, obtaining ARRT registration in radiography (R), and pursuing state licensure where applicable. As they build experience, individuals should consider obtaining additional ARRT certifications in specialized modalities, which are increasingly valued as outpatient imaging chains continue to consolidate. Realistically, young professionals can expect their salaries to increase gradually as they transition from purely radiography roles into more specialized technician positions, reflecting the ongoing shifts in the field's structure and demand for capable, versatile radiologic technologists in NE.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Entry-level radiologic technologists and technicians in Norfolk start at approximately $55,327/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 $26.60/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 Norfolk?

Most radiologic technologists and technicians in Norfolk progress from the entry-level salary of $55,327 to the area median of $71,877 within 3–5 years of clinical experience. Top earners with specializations and certifications reach $100,634 (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 Norfolk?

With a starting salary of $55,327/year in Norfolk 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 Norfolk?

New radiologic technology graduates in Norfolk typically start near the 10th percentile at $55,327/year, or approximately $26.60/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 Nebraska?

To become a licensed radiologic technologist and technician in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska, 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 Nebraska

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 Norfolk. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Norfolk 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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