Altoona vs Pittsburgh: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Altoona, PA and Pittsburgh, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Altoona, PA | Pittsburgh, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,056▲ | $85,116 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.37▲ | $40.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,674▲ | $40,983 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,647 | $75,380▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,392 | $96,270▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,318▲ | $106,879 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 310▲ |
Verdict
Altoona, PA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pittsburgh.
The salary gap between Altoona and Pittsburgh is $940 (1.10%). Altoona's median is -14.19% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Altoona spans $45,644,Pittsburgh spans $65,896. Pittsburgh 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, Pittsburgh ($89,907 effective) pays 1.76% more than Altoona ($88,353 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Altoona if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,056/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,318)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $89,907)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Altoona grew 4.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 37.2% growth in Pittsburgh over the same period.
Altoona, PA
$78,736 (2024) → $81,935 (2025)
Pittsburgh, PA
$59,050 (2019) → $81,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Altoona, PA
Pittsburgh, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Altoona or Pittsburgh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Altoona and Pittsburgh?
Should I relocate from Altoona to Pittsburgh 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