Radiology Technician vs Registered Nurse
Radiologic technologists earn about $77,660 per year, while registered nurses earn around $93,600 per year. Radiology tech jobs are projected to grow 4% from 2024 to 2034, and RN jobs are expected to grow 5%. This guide compares responsibilities, education, certification, work environments, and long-term career paths to help you choose the role that fits your goals.
Registered Nurse Salary
- $93,600 per year
- Job outlook: 5%
(BLS Registered Nurse Data)
Work Environment & Patient Interaction
Radiology Technician Interaction
Patient interaction is brief and focused on imaging procedures.
Registered Nurse Interaction
RNs provide continuous, hands-on patient care throughout treatment.
Career Growth & Opportunities
Radiology Technician Paths
Options include CT, MRI, mammography, or interventional radiology.
Registered Nurse Paths
Specialties include ER, ICU, pediatrics, oncology, and advanced roles such as Nurse Practitioner or CRNA.
Radiology Technician vs Registered Nurse
Radiology technicians complete shorter training, focus on imaging, and have limited patient interaction. Registered nurses complete longer programs, provide comprehensive patient care, and have more opportunities for specialization and salary growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do nurses make more than rad techs?
Yes. RNs earn higher average salaries based on national BLS data.
What is the difference between a radiology nurse and a radiology tech?
A radiology nurse provides patient care before, during, and after imaging procedures. A radiology tech operates imaging equipment and produces images.
Who earns more, a radiographer or a nurse?
Registered nurses generally earn more.
Which field is better, nursing or radiology?
Radiology suits those who prefer technology and structured tasks. Nursing suits those who want continuous patient care and broader responsibilities.
Final Thoughts
Both careers offer rewarding paths in healthcare. Radiology is ideal for those who enjoy technical work and structured routines. Nursing is a strong option for those who want deeper clinical involvement and expanded career growth.
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Vduani Martinez is a part of the Growth team at Dreambound. She creates and fixes workflows and automation to guarantee seamless operations. On top of that, she manages databases to ensure all information is up to date. Vduani is a licensed Electronics Engineer who loves coffee and is a travel enthusiast. Out of the office, she enjoys going on road trips and discovering new cafes and restaurants.
