Fort Lauderdale vs Tampa: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Fort Lauderdale, FL and Tampa, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Tampa, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $94,365▲ | $86,849 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.37▲ | $41.75 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,639▲ | $52,631 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,036▲ | $79,770 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,518▲ | $102,898 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,480▲ | $108,811 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 540▲ |
Verdict
Fort Lauderdale, FL offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Tampa.
The salary gap between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa is $7,516 (8.65%). Fort Lauderdale's median is -5.90% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Lauderdale spans $59,841,Tampa spans $56,180. Fort Lauderdale 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, Fort Lauderdale ($93,616 effective) pays 8.75% more than Tampa ($86,083 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Lauderdale if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($94,365/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,480)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $93,616)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Tampa if…
- ✓Larger job market (540 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Fort Lauderdale grew 21.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 25.7% growth in Tampa over the same period.
Fort Lauderdale, FL
$74,244 (2024) → $89,846 (2025)
Tampa, FL
$65,770 (2019) → $82,690 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Fort Lauderdale or Tampa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Lauderdale and Tampa?
Should I relocate from Fort Lauderdale to Tampa as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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