Independence vs Springfield: Nuclear Medicine Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare nuclear medicine technologist salaries between Independence, MO and Springfield, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Independence, MO | Springfield, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,292 | $105,054▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.77 | $50.51▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,442▲ | $75,645 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,942▲ | $83,191 |
| 75th Percentile | $110,871▲ | $106,702 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $136,394▲ | $106,702 |
| Total Employed | 30 | 30 |
Verdict
Springfield, MO offers better overall compensation for nuclear medicine technologists, winning 2 out of 4 metrics compared to Independence.
The salary gap between Independence and Springfield is $7,762 (7.98%). Springfield's median is -1.26% compared to the US national median of $106,398.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Independence spans $59,952,Springfield spans $31,057. Independence has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Springfield ($118,591 effective) pays 9.22% more than Independence ($108,585 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Independence if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($136,394)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Springfield if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,054/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $118,591)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, nuclear medicine technologist salaries in Independence grew 17.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.7% growth in Springfield over the same period.
Independence, MO
$78,639 (2024) → $92,694 (2025)
Springfield, MO
$72,690 (2019) → $100,090 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Independence, MO
Springfield, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays nuclear medicine technologists more: Independence or Springfield?
What is the hourly rate difference between Independence and Springfield?
Should I relocate from Independence to Springfield as a nuclear medicine technologist?
What do entry-level nuclear medicine technologists earn in Independence vs Springfield?
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Written by Alexandra Chen, MS, CNMT
Career Analyst
Alexandra has 10 years of experience in nuclear medicine. She specializes in PET imaging at a community hospital. She analyzes trends in the nuclear medicine job market.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.96% 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 Alexandra Chen, MS, CNMT, a licensed nuclear medicine technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov