Bozeman vs Butte: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Bozeman, MT and Butte, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bozeman, MT | Butte, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,930▲ | $93,754 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.64▲ | $45.08 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,622▲ | $66,514 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,283▲ | $81,331 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,436 | $104,935▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $131,545▲ | $124,373 |
| Total Employed | 14▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Bozeman, MT offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Butte.
The salary gap between Bozeman and Butte is $1,176 (1.25%). Bozeman's median is -5.34% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bozeman spans $59,923,Butte spans $57,859. Bozeman 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, Bozeman ($98,680 effective) pays 1.25% more than Butte ($97,457 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bozeman if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,930/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,545)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,680)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Butte if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Bozeman grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Butte over the same period.
Bozeman, MT
$73,837 (2024) → $90,384 (2025)
Butte, MT
$72,922 (2024) → $89,264 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bozeman, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Bozeman or Butte?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bozeman and Butte?
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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