Radiologic Technologist jobs in Los Angeles, CA
Local pay, hiring demand and training costs for becoming a radiologic technologist in the Los Angeles, CA metro (12.8 million people). California licensing is strict but pay scales reflect it, and the community college system keeps training costs low for residents. Port and logistics work adds steady demand on the transport side.
Los Angeles numbers
- Local entry pay
- $64k–$78k
- Local experienced pay
- $92k–$124k with CT, MRI or interventional cross-training
- Local training cost
- $6,900–$25,300 at a community college
- Hiring demand
- Very high in the Los Angeles metro
- Time to qualify
- 2 years
- Credential needed
- ARRT registration plus state license
Pay in Los Angeles runs 18% above the national average, while cost of living is 45% above the national average. Net effect: Well below average — high costs offset the higher wage. Figures are modelled from national ranges adjusted by local wage and cost indexes — treat them as planning estimates, not job offers.
Job availability in Los Angeles
Demand for healthcare roles here is very high across a metro of 12.8 million. Employers and training providers worth checking first:
- Kaiser Permanente
- LA Community College District
- Port of Long Beach contractors
- Cedars-Sinai
What training costs here
Programs in Los Angeles run 15% above the national average — roughly $6,900–$25,300 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 Los Angeles
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.