Columbia vs Kansas City: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Columbia, MO and Kansas City, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, MO | Kansas City, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,800 | $88,267▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.85 | $42.44▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,939 | $77,323▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $80,075 | $85,263▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $92,489 | $102,415▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,068▲ | $107,257 |
| Total Employed | 60 | 390▲ |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Columbia and Kansas City is $7,467 (9.24%). Kansas City's median is -11.98% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $46,129,Kansas City spans $29,934. 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, Kansas City ($95,379 effective) pays 5.58% more than Columbia ($90,342 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,068)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,267/year)
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,379)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Columbia grew 19.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 18.8% growth in Kansas City over the same period.
Columbia, MO
$64,440 (2019) → $76,930 (2025)
Kansas City, MO
$70,770 (2019) → $84,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, MO
Kansas City, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Columbia or Kansas City?
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Should I relocate from Columbia to Kansas City as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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