Radiologic Technologist Salary in San Diego, CA: $79,539 (2024)

The median radiologic technologist salary in San Diego, CA is $79,539 per year ($38.24/hour) as of 2026. This is based on official U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data. Salaries range from $53,186 for entry-level positions to $116,214 for experienced professionals in the top 10%.

Entry-level radiologic technologists in San Diego, CA typically start at around $53,186 per year ($25.57/hour), representing the 10th percentile. New graduates and those with less than 2 years of experience fall into this range. With experience and skill development, salaries can progress to the median of $79,539 within 3-5 years.

Radiologic Technologists in San Diego, CA earn a median hourly wage of $38.24 per hour. Hourly rates range from $25.57/hour at entry-level (10th percentile) to $55.87/hour for top earners (90th percentile). Based on a standard 2,080-hour work year, this translates to annual salaries between $53,186 and $116,214.

The median radiologic technologist salary of $79,539 in San Diego, CA is above the national median of $73,410 (8.3% higher). However, the cost of living is 43% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. This salary places you at the 50th percentile, meaning half of radiologic technologists in the area earn more and half earn less.

Radiologic Technologists in San Diego, CA earn above the national average. The local median salary of $79,539 is 8.3% higher than the national median of $73,410. However, the cost of living is 43% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. When adjusted for cost of living, the effective salary is approximately $55,700.

The top 10% of radiologic technologists in San Diego, CA earn $116,214 or more per year ($55.87/hour). These top earners typically have 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, specialized expertise, or hold senior/management positions. The 75th percentile earns $97,057, which is a realistic goal for mid-career professionals.

Key skills that can boost radiologic technologist salary in San Diego, CA include: Strong communication and interpersonal abilities, Problem-solving and critical thinking, Technical proficiency relevant to the field, Attention to detail and organizational skills. Professionals with these skills often earn above the median of $79,539, potentially reaching the 75th percentile ($97,057) or higher. Years of relevant experience

San Diego, CA has a specialized job market for radiologic technologists, with approximately 221 professionals employed in the area. The median salary of $79,539 is above the national average. However, the cost of living is 43% above the national average, which affects purchasing power. Job seekers should consider both salary and local industry demand when evaluating opportunities.

Compare your radiologic technologist salary to these San Diego, CA benchmarks: 10th percentile (entry-level): $53,186, 25th percentile: $65,175, 50th percentile (median): $79,539, 75th percentile: $97,057, 90th percentile (top earners): $116,214. If you earn more than $79,539, you're above average for the area.

Beyond the $79,539 median base salary, radiologic technologists in San Diego, CA typically receive comprehensive benefits including health insurance (medical, dental, vision), retirement plans (401k with employer matching), paid time off (15-25 days), and potentially bonuses or profit-sharing. Total compensation including benefits typically adds 25-40% to base salary value.

Experienced radiologic technologists with 5-10 years in San Diego, CA typically earn $97,057 (75th percentile) to $116,214 (90th percentile) per year. Senior professionals with 10+ years, certifications, or management roles can reach the top 10% at $116,214. Mid-career professionals (3-5 years) usually earn around the median of $79,539.

Radiologic Technologists in San Diego, CA can see significant salary growth over their careers. Entry-level ($53,186) to median ($79,539) typically takes 3-5 years. Reaching the 90th percentile ($116,214) may take 10+ years and often requires specialized skills, certifications, or leadership experience. That's a potential growth of $63,028 over a career.