Bismarck vs Grand Forks: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Bismarck, ND and Grand Forks, ND. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bismarck, ND | Grand Forks, ND |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,939 | $92,781▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.72 | $44.61▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,856▲ | $65,536 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,006▲ | $77,284 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,235 | $103,455▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,167 | $120,194▲ |
| Total Employed | 11 | 14▲ |
Verdict
Grand Forks, ND offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bismarck.
The salary gap between Bismarck and Grand Forks is $1,842 (2.03%). Grand Forks'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 Bismarck spans $48,311,Grand Forks spans $54,658. Grand Forks has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Grand Forks ($100,849 effective) pays 2.03% more than Bismarck ($98,847 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bismarck if…
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Grand Forks if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,781/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,194)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,849)
- ✓You prefer the North Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Bismarck grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Grand Forks over the same period.
Bismarck, ND
$70,733 (2024) → $86,584 (2025)
Grand Forks, ND
$72,165 (2024) → $88,338 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bismarck, ND
Grand Forks, ND
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Bismarck or Grand Forks?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bismarck and Grand Forks?
Should I relocate from Bismarck to Grand Forks as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Bismarck vs Grand Forks?
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