Columbia vs Sumter: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Columbia, SC and Sumter, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbia, SC | Sumter, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,864▲ | $87,386 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.21▲ | $42.01 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,725▲ | $66,309 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,669▲ | $75,611 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,964 | $97,618▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,094 | $115,614▲ |
| Total Employed | 130▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Columbia, SC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sumter.
The salary gap between Columbia and Sumter is $2,478 (2.84%). Columbia's median is -10.39% 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,Sumter spans $49,305. Sumter 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, Columbia ($95,945 effective) pays 0.46% more than Sumter ($95,504 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 ($89,864/year)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,945)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Sumter if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($115,614)
- ✓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 32.6% growth in Sumter over the same period.
Columbia, SC
$68,730 (2019) → $85,560 (2025)
Sumter, SC
$62,741 (2024) → $83,201 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbia, SC
Sumter, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Columbia or Sumter?
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Should I relocate from Columbia to Sumter 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