If you’re considering a career in healthcare and are curious about earnings, you might be asking: “What is a nuc med tech salary?” This guide explores everything you need to know about the nuclear medicine technologist salary, including national averages, salary by state, job outlook, and factors that influence earnings.
What is a Nuclear Medicine Technologist?
A nuclear medicine technologist (NMT) is a specialized healthcare professional who prepares and administers radioactive drugs to patients for imaging or therapeutic purposes. These professionals play a crucial role in diagnosing and treating various diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders.
They work closely with physicians and radiologists and are often employed in hospitals, imaging centers, or specialized medical facilities.
Average Nuc Med Tech Salary in 2025
National Average Salary
As of 2025, the average salary for a nuclear medicine technologist in the United States is approximately $91,000 per year, according to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and industry sources.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
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Hourly wage: $43.75
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Monthly income: $7,583
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Annual salary: $91,000
This figure can vary based on experience, location, education level, certifications, and the type of healthcare facility.
Factors Influencing Nuc Med Tech Salary
1. Experience Level
As with most professions, more experience usually means a higher salary. Here’s how pay typically scales:
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Entry-level (0–2 years): $65,000 – $75,000
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Mid-career (3–7 years): $80,000 – $95,000
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Experienced (8+ years): $95,000 – $110,000+
2. Geographic Location
Where you work significantly affects your earning potential. States with higher costs of living or a higher demand for nuclear medicine technologists tend to offer better pay.
3. Certifications and Education
While a minimum of an associate degree is required, technologists with a bachelor’s degree or additional certifications (such as PET or CT) often earn more.
4. Type of Facility
Salaries can differ depending on whether you work in a hospital, outpatient care center, or a private imaging clinic. Hospitals generally pay more, especially large teaching hospitals or trauma centers.
Highest Paying States for Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Below are the top-paying states for NMTs in 2025:
| State | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| California | $112,000 |
| New York | $105,000 |
| Massachusetts | $102,000 |
| Washington | $99,000 |
| Oregon | $96,000 |
These numbers can fluctuate depending on city, demand, and facility type.
Salary Comparison: NMT vs. Similar Healthcare Jobs
To give context to the nuc med tech salary, here’s how it compares with related roles:
| Job Title | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Radiologic Technologist | $70,000 |
| MRI Technologist | $85,000 |
| Sonographer (Ultrasound Tech) | $78,000 |
| CT Technologist | $88,000 |
| Nuclear Medicine Technologist | $91,000 |
As you can see, NMTs are among the higher-paid imaging professionals.
Job Outlook and Growth for Nuclear Medicine Technologists
Positive Job Growth Ahead
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for nuclear medicine technologists is expected to grow 7% from 2023 to 2033, which is faster than average.
This growth is driven by:
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An aging population requiring diagnostic imaging
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Advances in nuclear medicine technologies
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Increased use of PET and SPECT scans
With the combination of high demand and solid pay, this is a promising career path.
How to Increase Your Nuc Med Tech Salary
If you’re already in the field or just starting out, here are some tips to boost your earning potential:
1. Pursue Advanced Certifications
Certifications from the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NMTCB) or American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) in PET, CT, or MRI can increase your value to employers.
2. Gain More Experience
Like many healthcare careers, experience matters. Stay in the field, take on leadership roles, and pursue continuing education.
3. Work in High-Paying States or Cities
Consider relocating to states like California, New York, or Massachusetts for better pay. Metro areas usually pay more than rural settings.
4. Shift to Specialized Facilities
Specialized clinics, cancer centers, and research institutions may offer higher salaries than general hospitals.
Pros and Cons of a Career in Nuclear Medicine
Pros
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High salary compared to other healthcare tech jobs
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Opportunities for specialization and advancement
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High job satisfaction from helping patients
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Strong job security
Cons
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Exposure to radiation (though minimized with safety protocols)
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Physically demanding work (standing for long periods)
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May require working nights, weekends, or holidays
Frequently Asked Questions
Is being a nuclear medicine technologist worth it?
Yes, for those interested in science, patient care, and diagnostic imaging, this career offers a strong salary, growth potential, and job satisfaction.
How long does it take to become a nuclear medicine technologist?
Typically, it takes 2 to 4 years, depending on whether you pursue an associate’s or bachelor’s degree.
Do nuclear medicine technologists make more than radiologic technologists?
Yes, on average, nuclear medicine technologists earn more than radiologic technologists due to the specialized nature of their work.
Conclusion
The nuc med tech salary is one of the most attractive among allied health professions, especially in the imaging field. With a national average of around $91,000 annually and opportunities for growth through certifications and experience, it’s a financially rewarding career. Whether you’re just starting your education or looking to make a career switch, nuclear medicine technology offers a blend of high pay, job security, and personal fulfillment.
If you’re ready to explore this path, now is a great time to enter the field and start building a rewarding career in nuclear medicine
