Forest Grove vs Salem: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Forest Grove, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Forest Grove, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $100,454 | $128,053▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $48.29 | $61.57▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $72,036 | $99,505▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $83,823 | $108,948▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,215 | $136,182▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $127,976 | $137,736▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Salem, OR offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Forest Grove.
The salary gap between Forest Grove and Salem is $27,599 (27.47%). Salem's median is +27.69% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Forest Grove spans $55,940,Salem spans $38,231. Forest Grove 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, Salem ($123,545 effective) pays 26.18% more than Forest Grove ($97,908 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Forest Grove if…
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($128,053/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($137,736)
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $123,545)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Forest Grove grew -6.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.1% growth in Salem over the same period.
Forest Grove, OR
$102,174 (2024) → $95,643 (2025)
Salem, OR
$92,260 (2019) → $121,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Forest Grove, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Forest Grove or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Forest Grove and Salem?
Should I relocate from Forest Grove to Salem as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Forest Grove vs Salem?
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