Bristol vs Virginia Beach: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Bristol, VA and Virginia Beach, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Bristol, VA | Virginia Beach, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,488 | $100,776▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.69 | $48.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,818 | $81,199▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $69,868 | $83,247▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,807 | $103,265▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $101,668 | $104,767▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach is $20,288 (25.21%). Virginia Beach's median is +0.49% 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,Virginia Beach spans $23,568. 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, Virginia Beach ($102,895 effective) pays 31.93% 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 Virginia Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($100,776/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($104,767)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,895)
- ✓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 34.8% growth in Virginia Beach over the same period.
Bristol, VA
$79,391 (2024) → $76,633 (2025)
Virginia Beach, VA
$71,190 (2019) → $95,950 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Bristol, VA
Virginia Beach, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Bristol or Virginia Beach?
What is the hourly rate difference between Bristol and Virginia Beach?
Should I relocate from Bristol to Virginia Beach as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Bristol vs Virginia Beach?
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