Fort Wayne vs South Bend: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Fort Wayne, IN and South Bend, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Fort Wayne, IN | South Bend, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,479 | $93,382▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.05 | $44.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,534 | $68,396▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,738▲ | $84,234 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,562▲ | $93,540 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,654▲ | $101,848 |
| Total Employed | 80▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Fort Wayne and South Bend are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Fort Wayne and South Bend is $5,903 (6.75%). South Bend's median is -6.88% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Fort Wayne spans $36,120,South Bend spans $33,452. Fort Wayne 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, South Bend ($100,564 effective) pays 6.42% more than Fort Wayne ($94,498 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Fort Wayne if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($103,654)
- ✓Larger job market (80 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose South Bend if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($93,382/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,564)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Fort Wayne grew 21.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.3% growth in South Bend over the same period.
Fort Wayne, IN
$68,490 (2019) → $83,290 (2025)
South Bend, IN
$69,320 (2020) → $88,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Fort Wayne, IN
South Bend, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Fort Wayne or South Bend?
What is the hourly rate difference between Fort Wayne and South Bend?
Should I relocate from Fort Wayne to South Bend as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Fort Wayne vs South Bend?
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