Federal Way vs Seattle: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Federal Way, WA and Seattle, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Federal Way, WA | Seattle, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $106,731 | $137,022▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.32 | $65.87▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,911 | $104,904▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $89,976 | $130,542▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $119,821 | $164,572▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $144,376 | $171,924▲ |
| Total Employed | 22 | 460▲ |
Verdict
Seattle, WA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Federal Way.
The salary gap between Federal Way and Seattle is $30,291 (28.38%). Seattle's median is +36.64% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Federal Way spans $67,465,Seattle spans $67,020. Federal Way 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, Seattle ($123,296 effective) pays 24.07% more than Federal Way ($99,377 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Federal Way if…
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($137,022/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($171,924)
- ✓Larger job market (460 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $123,296)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Federal Way grew -11.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.2% growth in Seattle over the same period.
Federal Way, WA
$114,945 (2024) → $101,620 (2025)
Seattle, WA
$101,780 (2019) → $130,460 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Federal Way, WA
Seattle, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Federal Way or Seattle?
What is the hourly rate difference between Federal Way and Seattle?
Should I relocate from Federal Way to Seattle as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Federal Way vs Seattle?
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