Copperas Cove vs Houston: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Copperas Cove, TX and Houston, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Copperas Cove, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $91,555 | $107,729▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.02 | $51.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,720 | $84,623▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,843 | $96,071▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,912 | $113,506▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,531▲ | $119,986 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 820▲ |
Verdict
Houston, TX offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Copperas Cove.
The salary gap between Copperas Cove and Houston is $16,174 (17.67%). Houston's median is +7.42% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Copperas Cove spans $48,811,Houston spans $35,363. Copperas Cove 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, Houston ($109,226 effective) pays 14.53% more than Copperas Cove ($95,370 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Copperas Cove if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,531)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,729/year)
- ✓Larger job market (820 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,226)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Copperas Cove grew 14.5% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 36.6% growth in Houston over the same period.
Copperas Cove, TX
$76,105 (2024) → $87,170 (2025)
Houston, TX
$75,070 (2020) → $102,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Copperas Cove, TX
Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Copperas Cove or Houston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Copperas Cove and Houston?
Should I relocate from Copperas Cove to Houston as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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Related Comparisons
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