Columbus vs Lima: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Columbus, OH and Lima, OH. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Columbus, OH | Lima, OH |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,084▲ | $91,446 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.71▲ | $43.97 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,400▲ | $71,417 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,589▲ | $80,692 |
| 75th Percentile | $106,984▲ | $98,342 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $108,475 | $114,386▲ |
| Total Employed | 380▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Columbus, OH offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Lima.
The salary gap between Columbus and Lima is $3,638 (3.98%). Columbus's median is -5.18% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Columbus spans $28,075,Lima spans $42,969. Lima 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, Lima ($100,822 effective) pays 1.23% more than Columbus ($99,597 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Columbus if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,084/year)
- ✓Larger job market (380 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Choose Lima if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,386)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,822)
- ✓You prefer the Ohio area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Columbus grew 30.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.4% growth in Lima over the same period.
Columbus, OH
$69,650 (2019) → $90,530 (2025)
Lima, OH
$67,808 (2024) → $87,067 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Columbus, OH
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Columbus or Lima?
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Should I relocate from Columbus to Lima 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