Albany vs Rochester: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Albany, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albany, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,257▲ | $85,263 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.57▲ | $40.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,767 | $77,649▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,261▲ | $84,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,410▲ | $101,974 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,529▲ | $103,265 |
| Total Employed | 130 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Albany, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Albany and Rochester is $21,994 (25.80%). Albany's median is +6.95% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albany spans $59,762,Rochester spans $25,616. Albany 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, Albany ($107,725 effective) pays 22.60% more than Rochester ($87,868 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albany if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,257/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,529)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,725)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Albany grew 43.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 17.3% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Albany, NY
$71,310 (2019) → $102,120 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$69,180 (2019) → $81,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albany, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Albany or Rochester?
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Should I relocate from Albany to Rochester as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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Related Comparisons
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