Average Radiation Therapists Salary in California
Radiation Therapists in California earn an impressive average annual salary of $158,490, substantially exceeding the national average of $110,350. This significant pay differential is largely attributed to California's robust healthcare sector, high demand for specialized medical professionals, and the state's overall economic landscape.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $158,490 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 25.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $202,910.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,240 Radiation Therapists, California demonstrates a notable presence in this specialized field. The Location Quotient of 0.56 suggests that while the concentration is below the national average, the sheer size of the workforce indicates a substantial and active job market, pointing towards consistent demand for these professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Radiation Therapists in California earns+43.6%above the national average.
$76.2
$3,048
$13,208
Radiation Therapists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that Radiation Therapist salaries in California have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, technological advancements in radiation therapy, and inflation likely contribute to an upward trajectory in compensation for these vital healthcare providers.
Radiation Therapists Salary Distribution in California
Career progression for Radiation Therapists in California typically involves a significant salary increase from entry-level to senior positions. Experienced professionals can command higher salaries, with the gap between lower and higher percentile earnings reflecting the value placed on specialized skills, years of practice, and leadership responsibilities within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $115,770 | $55.7 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $118,868 | $57.1 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $160,040 | $76.9 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $198,113 | $95.2 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $202,910 | $97.6 |
Detailed Radiation Therapists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$158,490
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$114,433
Adjusted for COL (138.5)
While the average annual salary of $158,490 in California is highly attractive, it's crucial to consider the state's Cost of Living Index of 138.5. This indicates that expenses are approximately 38.5% higher than the national average, meaning the purchasing power of the salary, while still strong, needs to be evaluated against the elevated cost of goods and services.
Job Market Context
1,240
Total Jobs
0.068
Per 1K Jobs
0.56
Location Quotient
California has 0.56x the national average concentration of Radiation Therapists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.56 for Radiation Therapists in California signifies that the state has a lower concentration of these professionals relative to the national average. This suggests that while the absolute number of jobs is significant, the market may be less saturated than in other regions, potentially offering more opportunities for skilled individuals.
Nearby Job Markets
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Radiation Therapists make in California?
The median annual salary for a Radiation Therapists in California is $158,490. This typically ranges from $115,770 for entry-level positions to $202,910 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in California is 43.6% higher than the national median of $110,350.
Is California a lucrative place for Radiation Therapists?
Yes, California is a highly lucrative state for Radiation Therapists.Radiation Therapists in California earn significantly more than the national average, with an average salary of $158,490. This high compensation reflects the state's strong healthcare industry and demand for specialized roles.
Is California a good place to live for Radiation Therapists?
The Cost of Living Index in California is 138.5. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
How does California's average Radiation Therapist salary compare to the national average?
California's average annual salary for Radiation Therapists is $158,490, which is considerably higher than the national average of $110,350.
What is the concentration of Radiation Therapists in California compared to the rest of the US?
California has a Location Quotient of 0.56 for Radiation Therapists, indicating a concentration that is below the national average. This suggests fewer professionals per capita relative to the national benchmark.
How does the cost of living in California affect the Radiation Therapist salary?
With a Cost of Living Index of 138.5, California is significantly more expensive than the national average. While the high salary offers good earning potential, the increased cost of living should be factored into financial planning.
What does the total local workforce number suggest about the job market for Radiation Therapists in California?
A total local workforce of 1,240 Radiation Therapists indicates a substantial presence and active job market within the state, suggesting consistent employment opportunities.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,240 employees in the California area with a job density of 0.068 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Radiation Therapists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in California