Albuquerque vs Rio Rancho: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Albuquerque, NM and Rio Rancho, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Albuquerque, NM | Rio Rancho, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,269 | $97,437▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.36 | $46.84▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,226▲ | $67,976 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,740▲ | $80,743 |
| 75th Percentile | $100,283 | $110,115▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,395 | $133,028▲ |
| Total Employed | 90▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Rio Rancho, NM offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Albuquerque.
The salary gap between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho is $5,168 (5.60%). Rio Rancho's median is -2.84% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Albuquerque spans $28,169,Rio Rancho spans $65,052. Rio Rancho has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Rio Rancho ($103,217 effective) pays 6.88% more than Albuquerque ($96,570 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Albuquerque if…
- ✓Larger job market (90 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Rio Rancho if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,437/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,028)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,217)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Albuquerque grew 22.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Rio Rancho over the same period.
Albuquerque, NM
$71,730 (2019) → $87,850 (2025)
Rio Rancho, NM
$69,957 (2024) → $92,771 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Albuquerque, NM
Rio Rancho, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Albuquerque or Rio Rancho?
What is the hourly rate difference between Albuquerque and Rio Rancho?
Should I relocate from Albuquerque to Rio Rancho as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Albuquerque vs Rio Rancho?
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