Radiographer Salary UK 2026
Radiographer salaries in the UK follow the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale. Newly qualified diagnostic and therapeutic radiographers enter at Band 5; reporting radiographers and sonographers typically reach Band 7 or above.
Radiographer Salary Pay Scale 2026
| Grade / Band | Annual Salary | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Band 5 | £29,970 – £36,483 | Newly qualified (diagnostic or therapeutic) |
| Band 6 | £37,338 – £44,962 | Senior Radiographer / specialist |
| Band 7 | £46,148 – £52,809 | Advanced / Reporting Radiographer |
| Sonographer (Band 7) | £46,148 – £52,809 | Ultrasound specialist (HCPC registered) |
| Band 8a | £53,755 – £60,504 | Consultant Radiographer |
Source: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings (ASHE), NHS Agenda for Change 2026, sector salary surveys and advertised vacancy data. Figures are estimates; individual salaries vary.
About Radiographer Salary Pay
Radiographers in the UK must hold a degree in Diagnostic Radiography or Therapeutic Radiography and register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Diagnostic radiographers produce medical images (X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound, fluoroscopy) for diagnosis. Therapeutic radiographers plan and deliver radiotherapy treatment to cancer patients — a distinct and highly specialist role.
Sonographers are a growing subspecialty within radiography. Diagnostic radiographers can train in ultrasound through a postgraduate qualification (PGDip or MSc), typically reaching Band 7. Sonography is in high demand across the NHS, with sonographer vacancy rates being among the highest in any NHS allied health profession.
Reporting radiographers — those trained to independently report on plain film X-rays and increasingly CT examinations — typically work at Band 7 and can significantly reduce turnaround times, freeing up radiologists for more complex work. This extended scope of practice is increasingly valued and often comes with Band 8 progression opportunities in specialist centres.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do radiographers earn in the UK?
Newly qualified radiographers start at NHS Band 5 (£29,970–£36,483). Senior radiographers at Band 6 earn £37,338–£44,962. Advanced, reporting radiographers and sonographers at Band 7 earn £46,148–£52,809. Consultant radiographers at Band 8a earn £53,755–£60,504. The median radiographer salary is approximately £38,000.
What is the difference between a radiographer and a radiologist?
Radiographers are allied health professionals who perform imaging procedures and, in the case of reporting radiographers, may interpret some images. Radiologists are medical doctors who complete 5–6 years of medical training plus 5+ years of specialist radiology training and are responsible for formally reporting and diagnosing from all imaging studies. Radiologists typically earn £90,000–£120,000+ as NHS consultants.
Is there a sonographer shortage in the UK?
Yes. The NHS faces a significant shortage of diagnostic sonographers, driven by increasing demand for ultrasound in antenatal care, general diagnostics and musculoskeletal services. The Society of Radiographers has consistently highlighted workforce gaps. This shortage supports higher vacancy rates and, in some cases, better pay offers or retention bonuses at individual trusts.