Carson vs San Diego: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Carson, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Carson, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,693 | $129,271▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $60.91 | $62.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $94,905▲ | $78,247 |
| 25th Percentile | $109,205▲ | $96,985 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,339 | $149,804▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $174,870▲ | $160,853 |
| Total Employed | 21 | 320▲ |
Verdict
San Diego, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Carson.
The salary gap between Carson and San Diego is $2,578 (2.03%). 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 Carson spans $79,965,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 3.14% more than Carson ($112,019 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Carson if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($174,870)
- ✓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 Carson grew -7.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.1% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Carson, CA
$130,797 (2024) → $120,626 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$96,100 (2019) → $123,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Carson, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Carson or San Diego?
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Should I relocate from Carson to San Diego as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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