Arlington Heights vs Chicago: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Arlington Heights, IL and Chicago, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Arlington Heights, IL | Chicago, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,919 | $105,797▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.26 | $50.87▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,434 | $84,917▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $76,213 | $88,729▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $99,087 | $108,990▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,860▲ | $115,060 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 1,930▲ |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Arlington Heights.
The salary gap between Arlington Heights and Chicago is $17,878 (20.33%). Chicago's median is +5.50% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Arlington Heights spans $52,426,Chicago spans $30,143. Arlington Heights 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, Chicago ($102,126 effective) pays 12.79% more than Arlington Heights ($90,545 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Arlington Heights if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,860)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,797/year)
- ✓Larger job market (1,930 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,126)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Arlington Heights grew 4.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 34.6% growth in Chicago over the same period.
Arlington Heights, IL
$80,267 (2024) → $83,708 (2025)
Chicago, IL
$74,810 (2019) → $100,730 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Arlington Heights, IL
Chicago, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Arlington Heights or Chicago?
What is the hourly rate difference between Arlington Heights and Chicago?
Should I relocate from Arlington Heights to Chicago 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