Bristol vs Richmond: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Bristol, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,488 | $103,644▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.69 | $49.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,818 | $82,732▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $69,868 | $86,188▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,807 | $105,954▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,668 | $106,133▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Bristol.
The salary gap between Bristol and Richmond is $23,156 (28.77%). Richmond's median is +3.35% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Bristol spans $39,850,Richmond spans $23,401. Bristol 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, Richmond ($105,913 effective) pays 35.80% more than Bristol ($77,992 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Bristol if…
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,644/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,133)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,913)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Bristol grew -3.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 43.3% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Bristol, VA
$79,391 (2024) → $76,633 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$68,860 (2019) → $98,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Bristol or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Richmond?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Richmond as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Bristol vs Richmond?
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