Aiken vs Columbia: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Aiken, SC and Columbia, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Aiken, SC | Columbia, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,989▲ | $89,864 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.74▲ | $43.21 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,614 | $71,725▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $77,673 | $82,669▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,619▲ | $96,964 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,700▲ | $100,094 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Aiken, SC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Aiken and Columbia is $1,125 (1.25%). Aiken's median is -9.27% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Aiken spans $51,086,Columbia spans $28,369. Aiken 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, Aiken ($99,442 effective) pays 3.64% more than Columbia ($95,945 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Aiken if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,989/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,700)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,442)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Aiken grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 24.5% growth in Columbia over the same period.
Aiken, SC
$65,327 (2024) → $86,631 (2025)
Columbia, SC
$68,730 (2019) → $85,560 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR)
Career Analyst
Carmen has 10 years of experience as an MRI technologist. She specializes in pediatric imaging at a regional hospital. Carmen contributes to various industry publications.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.03% 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 Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR), a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov