Ames vs Des Moines: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Ames, IA and Des Moines, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Ames, IA | Des Moines, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,212▲ | $89,349 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.37▲ | $42.96 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,555 | $76,556▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,993 | $84,843▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $102,877▲ | $99,905 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $123,968▲ | $103,749 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 60▲ |
Verdict
Ames, IA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Des Moines.
The salary gap between Ames and Des Moines is $863 (0.97%). Ames's median is -10.04% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Ames spans $61,413,Des Moines spans $27,193. Ames 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, Ames ($99,792 effective) pays 2.42% more than Des Moines ($97,435 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Ames if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,212/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($123,968)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,792)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Ames grew 29.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 39.7% growth in Des Moines over the same period.
Ames, IA
$66,569 (2024) → $85,892 (2025)
Des Moines, IA
$60,900 (2019) → $85,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Ames or Des Moines?
What is the hourly rate difference between Ames and Des Moines?
Should I relocate from Ames to Des Moines as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Ames vs Des Moines?
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