Des Moines vs Waterloo: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Des Moines, IA and Waterloo, IA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Des Moines, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,349▲ | $88,230 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.96▲ | $42.42 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,556▲ | $65,122 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,843▲ | $75,323 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,905▲ | $98,279 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,749 | $117,348▲ |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Des Moines, IA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waterloo.
The salary gap between Des Moines and Waterloo is $1,119 (1.27%). Des Moines's median is -10.90% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Des Moines spans $27,193,Waterloo spans $52,226. Waterloo 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, Waterloo ($97,600 effective) pays 0.17% more than Des Moines ($97,435 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Des Moines if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,349/year)
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Choose Waterloo if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,348)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $97,600)
- ✓You prefer the Iowa area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Des Moines grew 39.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.0% growth in Waterloo over the same period.
Des Moines, IA
$60,900 (2019) → $85,070 (2025)
Waterloo, IA
$65,106 (2024) → $84,005 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Des Moines, IA
Waterloo, IA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Des Moines or Waterloo?
What is the hourly rate difference between Des Moines and Waterloo?
Should I relocate from Des Moines to Waterloo as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Des Moines vs Waterloo?
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