Fort Smith vs Jonesboro: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Fort Smith, AR and Jonesboro, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Smith, AR | Jonesboro, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,203▲ | $83,509 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.40▲ | $40.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,589 | $66,127▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,165▲ | $66,127 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,044▲ | $86,965 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $118,639▲ | $106,521 |
| Total Employed | 15 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Fort Smith, AR offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Jonesboro.
The salary gap between Fort Smith and Jonesboro is $4,694 (5.62%). Fort Smith's median is -12.05% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Smith spans $55,050,Jonesboro spans $40,394. Fort Smith 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 Smith ($101,499 effective) pays 4.38% more than Jonesboro ($97,244 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Smith if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,203/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($118,639)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,499)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Jonesboro if…
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Fort Smith grew 44.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 68.3% growth in Jonesboro over the same period.
Fort Smith, AR
$58,050 (2024) → $83,979 (2025)
Jonesboro, AR
$47,230 (2021) → $79,510 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Smith, AR
Jonesboro, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
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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