Denver vs Golden: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Denver, CO and Golden, CO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Denver, CO | Golden, CO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,248▲ | $96,916 |
| Hourly Rate | $53.48▲ | $46.59 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,969▲ | $75,346 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,184▲ | $84,867 |
| 75th Percentile | $119,566▲ | $106,316 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,548▲ | $123,484 |
| Total Employed | 330▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Denver, CO offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Golden.
The salary gap between Denver and Golden is $14,332 (14.79%). Denver's median is +10.93% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Denver spans $37,579,Golden spans $48,138. Golden 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, Denver ($105,167 effective) pays 13.94% more than Golden ($92,301 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Denver if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($111,248/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($127,548)
- ✓Larger job market (330 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,167)
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Choose Golden if…
- ✓You prefer the Colorado area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Denver grew 21.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 6.1% growth in Golden over the same period.
Denver, CO
$87,250 (2019) → $105,920 (2025)
Golden, CO
$86,979 (2024) → $92,275 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Denver, CO
Golden, CO
Frequently Asked Questions
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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