Entry-Level Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary in Manchester, NJ: $70,197 (2026)
Quick Answer:New radiologic technologists and technicians entering the Manchester, NJ job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $70,197 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2034, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Manchester's local price level (BEA RPP 115.2 — 15% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $60,935 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($93,609) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Compensation for new graduates entering the radiologic technologist and technician field in Manchester, NJ reflects a competitive starting point, with projections indicating an entry-level salary of $70,197 in 2026. This amount marks a noticeable gap when compared to the city median of $93,609. Over the first few years of their careers, newcomers can expect their salaries to gradually increase, moving from entry-level rates to the 25th percentile at $78,513 and eventually approaching the median as they gain experience. Given the strong growth trajectory for the profession—predicted to rise at an annual rate of 5.29%—Manchester presents a favorable market for recent graduates looking to establish themselves in this field.
About the Manchester Market
Salary estimated from New Jersey average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Manchester
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Manchester
Entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians in Manchester, NJ typically start between $70,197 and $78,513 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $68,795 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $93,609 — 10.98% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in New Jersey of $34,000 represents just 48.44% of the starting radiologic technologist and technician pay ($70,197/year) in Manchester. 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 Manchester
- 1Research the Manchester market: entry-level radiologic technologist and technician pay ranges from $70,197 to $78,513, 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 NJ often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Manchester, 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 Manchester for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Manchester's above-average cost of living (index: 115.2) when evaluating offers — a slightly lower salary in a nearby affordable area may provide better purchasing power.
Radiologic Technologist and Technician Compensation Range
The radiologic technologist and technician wage spread in Manchester is $68,795 ( 98.00%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $70,197, experienced hygienists can earn up to $138,992.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$49,401
2025 BLS Actual
$66,670
2026 Current Est.
$70,197
2019–2027 Growth
+49.6%
Salary Trajectory for Radiologic Technologists and Technicians in Manchester (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.29% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $49,401 | Actual |
| 2020 | $50,235 | Actual |
| 2021 | $55,797 | Actual |
| 2022 | $56,880 | Actual |
| 2023 | $59,572 | Actual |
| 2024 | $65,938 | Actual |
| 2025 | $66,670 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $70,197 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $73,910 | Projected |
Entry-level radiologic technologist and technician compensation (10th percentile) in Manchester, NJ grew 35.0% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $49,401 in 2019 to $66,670 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $73,910. New graduates entering the Manchester job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Manchester metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 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 Manchester
In terms of employment opportunities, several medical institutions in Manchester recognize the value of fresh talent, especially in hospital systems that often offer cross-training in CT and MRI during the first year or two. Outpatient imaging chains are also key employers, frequently seeking entry-level technologists who are willing to expand their skill set. While larger orthopedic practices typically favor candidates with experience in extremity imaging, recent graduates can still enhance their appeal by obtaining credentials such as an Associate's or Bachelor's degree from a JRCERT-accredited program, along with ARRT registration in radiography (R). For optimal early career advancement, pursuing additional ARRT modality certifications in CT, MRI, or mammography is essential, as roles strictly focused on radiography may see salaries compress at the bottom of the pay scale. With a well-planned strategy, newcomers can realistically expect their salaries to rise within their first few years, aligning with broader industry trends and enhancing their marketability within New Jersey.
More salary data for Manchester, NJ:
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is radiologic technology school worth it in Manchester?
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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
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 Manchester. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Manchester is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
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