Birmingham vs Huntsville: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Birmingham, AL and Huntsville, AL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Birmingham, AL | Huntsville, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,530▲ | $85,358 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.56▲ | $41.04 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,427▲ | $63,007 |
| 25th Percentile | $75,086 | $77,953▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $90,714 | $98,245▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,900▲ | $99,715 |
| Total Employed | 150▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Birmingham, AL offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Huntsville.
The salary gap between Birmingham and Huntsville is $3,172 (3.72%). Birmingham's median is -11.72% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Birmingham spans $38,473,Huntsville spans $36,708. Birmingham 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, Birmingham ($96,602 effective) pays 5.33% more than Huntsville ($91,712 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Birmingham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,530/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,900)
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,602)
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Choose Huntsville if…
- ✓You prefer the Alabama area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Birmingham grew 34.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 39.3% growth in Huntsville over the same period.
Birmingham, AL
$62,620 (2019) → $84,290 (2025)
Huntsville, AL
$58,350 (2019) → $81,270 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Birmingham, AL
Huntsville, AL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Birmingham or Huntsville?
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Should I relocate from Birmingham to Huntsville 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