Dale City vs Richmond: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Dale City, VA and Richmond, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dale City, VA | Richmond, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,731 | $103,644▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.43 | $49.83▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $74,258 | $82,732▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,024 | $86,188▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $114,494▲ | $105,954 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $133,733▲ | $106,133 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 160▲ |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Dale City.
The salary gap between Dale City and Richmond is $2,913 (2.89%). Richmond's median is +3.35% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Dale City spans $59,475,Richmond spans $23,401. Dale City 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, Richmond ($105,913 effective) pays 8.51% more than Dale City ($97,608 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dale City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($133,733)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,644/year)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,913)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Dale City grew 19.3% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 43.3% growth in Richmond over the same period.
Dale City, VA
$80,358 (2024) → $95,907 (2025)
Richmond, VA
$68,860 (2019) → $98,680 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dale City, VA
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Dale City or Richmond?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dale City and Richmond?
Should I relocate from Dale City to Richmond 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