Austin vs McAllen: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Austin, TX and McAllen, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | McAllen, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,193▲ | $85,757 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.21▲ | $41.23 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,543▲ | $67,461 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,622▲ | $75,159 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,477▲ | $96,292 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,322▲ | $98,182 |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 50 |
Verdict
Austin, TX offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to McAllen.
The salary gap between Austin and McAllen is $12,436 (14.50%). Austin's median is -2.08% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Austin spans $42,779,McAllen spans $30,721. Austin 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, Austin ($100,130 effective) pays 0.29% more than McAllen ($99,839 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Austin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,193/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($125,322)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,130)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose McAllen if…
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Austin grew 23.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.2% growth in McAllen over the same period.
Austin, TX
$75,540 (2019) → $93,490 (2025)
McAllen, TX
$72,740 (2021) → $81,650 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
McAllen, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Austin or McAllen?
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Should I relocate from Austin to McAllen as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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