Detroit vs Sterling Heights: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Detroit, MI and Sterling Heights, MI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Detroit, MI | Sterling Heights, MI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,441 | $95,421▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.48 | $45.88▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,337▲ | $65,719 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,799▲ | $78,137 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,018 | $104,774▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,398 | $134,853▲ |
| Total Employed | 560▲ | 29 |
Verdict
Sterling Heights, MI offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Detroit.
The salary gap between Detroit and Sterling Heights is $4,980 (5.51%). Sterling Heights's median is -4.85% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Detroit spans $20,061,Sterling Heights spans $69,134. Sterling Heights 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, Sterling Heights ($102,383 effective) pays 13.54% more than Detroit ($90,172 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Detroit if…
- ✓Larger job market (560 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Choose Sterling Heights if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,421/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($134,853)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,383)
- ✓You prefer the Michigan area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Detroit grew 35.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.4% growth in Sterling Heights over the same period.
Detroit, MI
$63,470 (2019) → $86,110 (2025)
Sterling Heights, MI
$74,219 (2024) → $90,851 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Detroit, MI
Sterling Heights, MI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Detroit or Sterling Heights?
What is the hourly rate difference between Detroit and Sterling Heights?
Should I relocate from Detroit to Sterling Heights as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Detroit vs Sterling Heights?
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