Alexandria vs New Orleans: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Alexandria, LA and New Orleans, LA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Alexandria, LA | New Orleans, LA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,555▲ | $83,005 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.61▲ | $39.91 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,101 | $72,303▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,348▲ | $72,303 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,258 | $100,346▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,841 | $113,317▲ |
| Total Employed | 9 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Alexandria and New Orleans are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Alexandria and New Orleans is $3,550 (4.28%). Alexandria's median is -13.69% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Alexandria spans $45,740,New Orleans spans $41,014. Alexandria 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, Alexandria ($95,853 effective) pays 6.93% more than New Orleans ($89,641 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Alexandria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,555/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,853)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Choose New Orleans if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,317)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Louisiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Alexandria grew 34.1% from 2023 to 2025, compared to 24.1% growth in New Orleans over the same period.
Alexandria, LA
$61,460 (2023) → $82,410 (2025)
New Orleans, LA
$63,670 (2019) → $79,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Alexandria, LA
New Orleans, LA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Alexandria or New Orleans?
What is the hourly rate difference between Alexandria and New Orleans?
Should I relocate from Alexandria to New Orleans as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Alexandria vs New Orleans?
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