This is driven by the zip code you entered. Then provide statistics from the area. Not three years ago; Relative current.
In my field, dental hygienist's income goes far beyond radar technology, respiratory therapists, or RN. When I check the average salary:
Dental hygienist - 63000
RN - 52000.
Respiatory therapist - 48000
Radioligiocal technician - 46,000
But these are the average values of the places I live in, and your information may be comparable. (I managed them without modification of size or experience.) Your find in New York is different from Atlanta.
There are other websites where you can view the same information.
Both types of careers have requirements, with extra certificates and training, and you'll be open to earning more. If money is the only factor you're looking at, run these Numbers and look at every drop in your area.
FYI - my brother and sister-in-law has been a dental hygienist for five years, making 100,000 + a year. But she received additional certification.
For dental hygienists, working hours are usually better - there are no midnight shifts.
Good luck, and look at the current information, in your choice, in these two areas, to see how they like their choices.
