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Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech) vs Surgical Technologist (Surg Tech / OR Tech)
There's no single winner — the right pick depends on you. Here's how they actually compare, by the BLS numbers, with the honest tradeoffs of each.
| Metric | Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech) | Surgical Technologist (Surg Tech / OR Tech) |
|---|---|---|
| Median wage | $77,660 | $62,840 |
| Typical pay range (10th–90th pct) | $50,000 – $105,000 | $41,000 – $91,000 |
| Training time | 78–104 weeks | 60–104 weeks |
| Job growth (BLS) | +5% (projected growth) | +6% (projected growth) |
| Workforce Pell | Not structurally eligible | Structurally eligible |
| Licensure | Licensed in all 50 states + DC | Licensed in 8 states |
| Paid apprenticeship route | Yes | Yes |
| Sector | Healthcare | Healthcare |
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Full breakdown: Radiologic Technologist (Rad Tech)Wages, training, licensure & the honest tradeoffsFull breakdown: Surgical Technologist (Surg Tech / OR Tech)Wages, training, licensure & the honest tradeoffs
Workforce Pell eligibility is structural (does the typical program fit the federal hour cap) — actual funding depends on state approval. Wage figures are BLS-verified medians; individual pay varies by region, employer, and experience.