Columbia vs Silver Spring: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Columbia, MD and Silver Spring, MD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MD | Silver Spring, MD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $109,983▲ | $106,807 |
| Hourly Rate | $52.87▲ | $51.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,991 | $79,038▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $91,003 | $91,336▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $124,325▲ | $121,462 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $149,636▲ | $142,311 |
| Total Employed | 24▲ | 12 |
Verdict
Columbia, MD offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Silver Spring.
The salary gap between Columbia and Silver Spring is $3,176 (2.97%). Columbia's median is +9.67% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $72,645,Silver Spring spans $63,273. Columbia 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, Columbia ($100,625 effective) pays 2.97% more than Silver Spring ($97,719 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($109,983/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,636)
- ✓Larger job market (24 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,625)
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Choose Silver Spring if…
- ✓You prefer the Maryland area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Columbia grew 3.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 6.1% growth in Silver Spring over the same period.
Columbia, MD
$101,146 (2024) → $104,716 (2025)
Silver Spring, MD
$95,855 (2024) → $101,692 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MD
Silver Spring, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Columbia or Silver Spring?
What is the hourly rate difference between Columbia and Silver Spring?
Should I relocate from Columbia to Silver Spring as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Columbia vs Silver Spring?
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