Lexington vs Paducah: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Lexington, KY and Paducah, KY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lexington, KY | Paducah, KY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $83,190▲ | $79,178 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.00▲ | $38.06 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $55,930▲ | $54,751 |
| 25th Percentile | $65,354▲ | $64,848 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,845▲ | $91,939 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,090▲ | $104,974 |
| Total Employed | 660▲ | 120 |
Verdict
Lexington, KY offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Paducah.
The salary gap between Lexington and Paducah is $4,012 (5.07%). Lexington's median is -1.37% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lexington spans $49,160,Paducah spans $50,223. Paducah has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologic technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Paducah ($91,978 effective) pays 2.70% more than Lexington ($89,559 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lexington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($83,190/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,090)
- ✓Larger job market (660 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Choose Paducah if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $91,978)
- ✓You prefer the Kentucky area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Lexington grew 51.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 21.2% growth in Paducah over the same period.
Lexington, KY
$52,300 (2019) → $79,010 (2025)
Paducah, KY
$62,040 (2024) → $75,200 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lexington, KY
Paducah, KY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Lexington or Paducah?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lexington and Paducah?
Should I relocate from Lexington to Paducah as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Lexington vs Paducah?
Written by Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM)
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in radiologic technology. They specialize in mammography and work in an outpatient imaging center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.29% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM), a licensed radiologic technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov