Columbia vs Greer: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Columbia, SC and Greer, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Greer, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,864 | $92,902▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.21 | $44.67▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,725▲ | $68,925 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,669▲ | $79,514 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,964 | $102,937▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,094 | $121,527▲ |
| Total Employed | 130▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Greer, SC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Columbia.
The salary gap between Columbia and Greer is $3,038 (3.38%). Greer's median is -7.36% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbia spans $28,369,Greer spans $52,602. Greer 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, Greer ($101,532 effective) pays 5.82% more than Columbia ($95,945 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbia if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Greer if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($92,902/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,527)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,532)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Columbia grew 24.5% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 35.2% growth in Greer over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$68,730 (2019) → $85,560 (2025)
Greer, SC
$65,445 (2024) → $88,453 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Columbia or Greer?
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Should I relocate from Columbia to Greer 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