Arlington vs Austin: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Arlington, TX and Austin, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Arlington, TX | Austin, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,471▲ | $98,193 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.71▲ | $47.21 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,681 | $82,543▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $85,214 | $89,622▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,959▲ | $112,477 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $146,566▲ | $125,322 |
| Total Employed | 83 | 260▲ |
Verdict
Arlington, TX offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Austin.
The salary gap between Arlington and Austin is $7,278 (7.41%). Arlington's median is +5.17% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Arlington spans $75,885,Austin spans $42,779. Arlington 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, Arlington ($109,866 effective) pays 9.72% more than Austin ($100,130 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Arlington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,471/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($146,566)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,866)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Arlington grew 24.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.8% growth in Austin over the same period.
Arlington, TX
$80,986 (2024) → $100,420 (2025)
Austin, TX
$75,540 (2019) → $93,490 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Arlington, TX
Austin, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
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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