Austin vs San Antonio: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Austin, TX and San Antonio, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Austin, TX | San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,193 | $99,096▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $47.21 | $47.64▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,543▲ | $80,789 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,622▲ | $85,620 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,477▲ | $103,875 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,322▲ | $109,147 |
| Total Employed | 260▲ | 190 |
Verdict
Austin and San Antonio are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Austin and San Antonio is $903 (0.92%). San Antonio's median is -1.18% 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,San Antonio spans $28,358. 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, San Antonio ($104,624 effective) pays 4.49% 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 Austin if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($125,322)
- ✓Larger job market (260 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose San Antonio if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,096/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,624)
- ✓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 31.4% growth in San Antonio over the same period.
Austin, TX
$75,540 (2019) → $93,490 (2025)
San Antonio, TX
$71,820 (2019) → $94,350 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Austin, TX
San Antonio, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Austin or San Antonio?
What is the hourly rate difference between Austin and San Antonio?
Should I relocate from Austin to San Antonio as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Austin vs San Antonio?
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