Carlsbad vs San Diego: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Carlsbad, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carlsbad, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $128,190 | $129,271▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.63 | $62.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $93,967▲ | $78,247 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,885▲ | $96,985 |
| 75th Percentile | $145,540 | $149,804▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $176,144▲ | $160,853 |
| Total Employed | 23 | 320▲ |
Verdict
San Diego, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Carlsbad.
The salary gap between Carlsbad and San Diego is $1,081 (0.84%). San Diego's median is +28.91% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Carlsbad spans $82,177,San Diego spans $82,606. San Diego has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, San Diego ($115,537 effective) pays 1.94% more than Carlsbad ($113,342 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carlsbad if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($176,144)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,271/year)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $115,537)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Carlsbad grew -8.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.1% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Carlsbad, CA
$133,666 (2024) → $122,051 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$96,100 (2019) → $123,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carlsbad, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Carlsbad or San Diego?
What is the hourly rate difference between Carlsbad and San Diego?
Should I relocate from Carlsbad to San Diego as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Carlsbad vs San Diego?
Related Comparisons
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