Butte vs Missoula: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Butte, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Butte, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $93,754 | $94,342▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $45.08 | $45.35▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,514 | $70,345▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,331▲ | $81,075 |
| 75th Percentile | $104,935 | $105,620▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,373 | $126,368▲ |
| Total Employed | 7 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Missoula, MT offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Butte.
The salary gap between Butte and Missoula is $588 (0.63%). Missoula's median is -5.92% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Butte spans $57,859,Missoula spans $56,023. Butte 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, Missoula ($98,069 effective) pays 0.63% 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 Butte if…
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,342/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,368)
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,069)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Butte grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.0% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Butte, MT
$72,922 (2024) → $89,264 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$74,250 (2019) → $89,824 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Butte or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Butte and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Butte to Missoula 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