Bay City vs Detroit: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Bay City, MI and Detroit, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bay City, MI | Detroit, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,780▲ | $90,441 |
| Hourly Rate | $44.61▲ | $43.48 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,117 | $80,337▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,328 | $85,799▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,723▲ | $96,018 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,955▲ | $100,398 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 560▲ |
Verdict
Bay City, MI offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Detroit.
The salary gap between Bay City and Detroit is $2,339 (2.59%). Bay City's median is -7.48% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bay City spans $48,838,Detroit spans $20,061. Bay City 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, Bay City ($99,549 effective) pays 10.40% more than Detroit ($90,172 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bay City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,780/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,955)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,549)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Larger job market (560 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Bay City grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 35.7% growth in Detroit over the same period.
Bay City, MI
$72,165 (2024) → $88,337 (2025)
Detroit, MI
$63,470 (2019) → $86,110 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bay City, MI
Detroit, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Bay City or Detroit?
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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