Dallas vs Houston: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Dallas, TX and Houston, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Dallas, TX | Houston, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,645 | $107,729▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.75 | $51.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,843▲ | $84,623 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,258▲ | $96,071 |
| 75th Percentile | $118,726▲ | $113,506 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,061▲ | $119,986 |
| Total Employed | 950▲ | 820 |
Verdict
Dallas and Houston are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Dallas and Houston is $84 (0.08%). 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 Dallas spans $39,218,Houston spans $35,363. Dallas 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 4.60% more than Dallas ($104,418 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Dallas if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,061)
- ✓Larger job market (950 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,729/year)
- ✓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 Dallas grew 36.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 36.6% growth in Houston over the same period.
Dallas, TX
$74,970 (2019) → $102,490 (2025)
Houston, TX
$75,070 (2020) → $102,570 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Dallas, TX
Houston, TX
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Dallas or Houston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Dallas and Houston?
Should I relocate from Dallas to Houston as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Dallas vs Houston?
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