Buffalo vs Utica: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Buffalo, NY and Utica, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Buffalo, NY | Utica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,674 | $99,821▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.52 | $47.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,047 | $79,004▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,635 | $84,581▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $104,799 | $107,299▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $111,899 | $116,079▲ |
| Total Employed | 200▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Utica, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Buffalo.
The salary gap between Buffalo and Utica is $5,147 (5.44%). Utica's median is -0.46% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Buffalo spans $42,852,Utica spans $37,075. Buffalo 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, Utica ($107,707 effective) pays 9.04% more than Buffalo ($98,779 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Buffalo if…
- ✓Larger job market (200 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Utica if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,821/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,079)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,707)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Buffalo grew 31.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 60.2% growth in Utica over the same period.
Buffalo, NY
$68,770 (2019) → $90,140 (2025)
Utica, NY
$59,310 (2019) → $95,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Buffalo, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Buffalo or Utica?
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Should I relocate from Buffalo to Utica 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