Cleveland vs Akron: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Cleveland, OH and Akron, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cleveland, OH | Akron, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,080 | $96,596▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.27 | $46.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $81,724▲ | $72,744 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,765▲ | $85,484 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,554▲ | $100,556 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $105,083 | $105,429▲ |
| Total Employed | 380▲ | 130 |
Verdict
Akron, OH offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cleveland.
The salary gap between Cleveland and Akron is $4,516 (4.90%). Akron's median is -3.68% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cleveland spans $23,359,Akron spans $32,685. Akron 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, Akron ($103,455 effective) pays 5.53% more than Cleveland ($98,038 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cleveland if…
- ✓Larger job market (380 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Akron if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,596/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,429)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,455)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Cleveland grew 26.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 41.5% growth in Akron over the same period.
Cleveland, OH
$69,360 (2019) → $87,670 (2025)
Akron, OH
$64,990 (2019) → $91,970 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Cleveland, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Cleveland or Akron?
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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