Radiologic Technologist jobs in Chicago, IL
Local pay, hiring demand and training costs for becoming a radiologic technologist in the Chicago, IL metro (9.4 million people). Strong union apprenticeships, a big hospital network and a national freight hub. Wages land above the national average while housing stays cheaper than the coasts.
Chicago numbers
- Local entry pay
- $58k–$71k
- Local experienced pay
- $84k–$113k with CT, MRI or interventional cross-training
- Local training cost
- $6,000–$22,000 at a community college
- Hiring demand
- High in the Chicago metro
- Time to qualify
- 2 years
- Credential needed
- ARRT registration plus state license
Pay in Chicago runs 8% above the national average, while cost of living is 8% above the national average. Net effect: About average — pay and costs roughly cancel out. Figures are modelled from national ranges adjusted by local wage and cost indexes — treat them as planning estimates, not job offers.
Job availability in Chicago
Demand for healthcare roles here is high across a metro of 9.4 million. Employers and training providers worth checking first:
- Advocate Health
- IBEW Local 134
- City Colleges of Chicago
- BNSF and UP rail yards
What training costs here
Programs in Chicago run at the national average — roughly $6,000–$22,000 at a community college to reach your arrt registration plus state license. Compare a local community or technical college against employer-paid apprenticeships before you pay tuition.
AI impact
Low. AI reads images; technologists position patients, run equipment and manage safety.
Getting started from Chicago
Phase 1
Work in patient transport or as a radiology aide
Hospital entry roles get you inside the department, and many systems offer tuition support after 90 days.
Phase 2
Finish a JRCERT-accredited program
Two years of coursework and clinicals, then pass the ARRT registry exam for your license.
Phase 3
Cross-train into CT, MRI or interventional
Each added modality raises pay. Interventional and MRI techs are the highest-paid and most requested for travel contracts.