Chicago vs St. Charles: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Chicago, IL and St. Charles, IL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chicago, IL | St. Charles, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $105,797▲ | $88,062 |
| Hourly Rate | $50.87▲ | $42.34 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,917▲ | $64,556 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,729▲ | $74,522 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,990▲ | $94,985 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $115,060▲ | $110,508 |
| Total Employed | 1,930▲ | 7 |
Verdict
Chicago, IL offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to St. Charles.
The salary gap between Chicago and St. Charles is $17,735 (20.14%). Chicago's median is +5.50% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chicago spans $30,143,St. Charles spans $45,952. St. Charles 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, Chicago ($102,126 effective) pays 12.61% more than St. Charles ($90,692 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chicago if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($105,797/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,060)
- ✓Larger job market (1,930 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,126)
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Choose St. Charles if…
- ✓You prefer the Illinois area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Chicago grew 34.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.3% growth in St. Charles over the same period.
Chicago, IL
$74,810 (2019) → $100,730 (2025)
St. Charles, IL
$80,399 (2024) → $83,845 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chicago, IL
St. Charles, IL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Chicago or St. Charles?
What is the hourly rate difference between Chicago and St. Charles?
Should I relocate from Chicago to St. Charles as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Chicago vs St. Charles?
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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