How Much Do Radiology Nurses Make?
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Radiology nurses work in specialties that require medical imaging, such as x-rays and radiation therapy. They care for patients who are receiving radiation treatment and individuals who need ultrasounds, x-rays, and MRIs.
Individuals wondering, “How much does a radiology nurse make?” can keep reading for the information they need to negotiate the radiology nurse pay they deserve.
Average Salary for Radiology Nurses
Most radiology nurses work in hospitals and health systems. As of June 2022, the average annual radiology nurse salary is $70,270, according to Salary.com, with a range from $59,030 to $84,960. According to Payscale data from July 2022, the average annual salary for all registered nurses (RNs) is $68,620 — slightly lower than the average radiology nurse pay.
The Highest-Paying States for Radiology Nurses
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not track RN salaries by nursing specialty, but overall RN salaries can offer a look into pay for radiology nurses. According to the BLS, average RN salaries are the highest in California ($124,000), Hawaii ($106,530), Oregon ($98,630), the District of Columbia ($98,540), and Alaska ($97,230).
Local demand and the cost of living contribute to average salaries, and these states rank high for both. However, salaries can vary widely within a state, especially in larger states like California and Oregon. Consider the local cost of living to understand how much a radiology nurse salary offer is worth.
4 Ways to Increase Pay As a Radiology Nurse
- 1
Consider Pursuing Certifications
Certifications demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to a nursing specialty. Most certifications require experience within that specialty and a passing score on a board certification examination from the Radiologic Nursing Certification Board.
- 2
Increase Your Education Level
If you have an associate degree in nursing, you may be able to earn more by earning a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) degree. BSN degree-holders can increase their radiology nurse pay by earning master’s degrees and becoming a nurse administrator or advanced practice registered nurse.
- 3
Gain Experiencein Administrative Roles
You may also be able to increase your radiology nurse salary by taking on additional responsibilities and becoming a team leader or other nurse administrator. Certifications or additional education in leadership can help gain more diverse experience, along with volunteering for committees and other leadership opportunities.
- 4
Change Practice Setting
In general, nurses in government and hospitals earn the highest salaries. You can also go to where the radiology nurse salaries are highest — if long-term relocation is not an option, you may be able to increase your radiology nurse pay as a travel nurse.
Frequently Asked Questions About Radiology Nurse Salaries
What does a nurse in radiology do?
Radiology nurses care for patients who need x-rays or other radiology imaging, along with individuals receiving radiation treatment. Typical responsibilities include monitoring patients during treatment, administering sedation as needed, and updating medical records.
Where do radiology nurses work?
Most radiology nurses work in hospitals and health systems. Radiology nurses typically work in general medical imaging, radiology, or oncology departments, depending on their responsibilities and the organizational structure.
What’s the difference between a radiology nurse and a radiology technician?
A radiology nurse monitors patients, provides care, and educates patients and their families. Radiology technicians administer radiology treatments and take the radiology images. Typically, radiology nurse salaries are higher than radiology technician salaries.
Is there a demand for radiology nurses?
Radiology nurses are in demand due to the high demand for nurses in general and the rising demand for radiation treatments. Radiology nurse salaries reflect this demand.
