College Station vs Houston: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between College Station, TX and Houston, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | College Station, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,602 | $107,729▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $46.93 | $51.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,692 | $84,623▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,037 | $96,071▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $108,305 | $113,506▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,893▲ | $119,986 |
| Total Employed | 19 | 820▲ |
Verdict
Houston, TX offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to College Station.
The salary gap between College Station and Houston is $10,127 (10.38%). Houston's median is +7.42% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in College Station spans $61,201,Houston spans $35,363. College Station 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, Houston ($109,226 effective) pays 7.43% more than College Station ($101,669 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose College Station if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,893)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,729/year)
- ✓Larger job market (820 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,226)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in College Station grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.6% growth in Houston over the same period.
College Station, TX
$81,132 (2024) → $92,928 (2025)
Houston, TX
$75,070 (2020) → $102,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
College Station, TX
Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: College Station or Houston?
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Should I relocate from College Station to Houston 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