Franklin vs Knoxville: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Franklin, TN and Knoxville, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Franklin, TN | Knoxville, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,575▲ | $80,957 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.14▲ | $38.92 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,830 | $66,032▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,558▲ | $69,456 |
| 75th Percentile | $95,953▲ | $82,648 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $114,433▲ | $96,470 |
| Total Employed | 18 | 190▲ |
Verdict
Franklin, TN offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Knoxville.
The salary gap between Franklin and Knoxville is $4,618 (5.70%). Franklin's median is -14.67% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Franklin spans $50,603,Knoxville spans $30,438. Franklin 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, Franklin ($93,219 effective) pays 6.59% more than Knoxville ($87,456 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Franklin if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,575/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($114,433)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $93,219)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Knoxville if…
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Franklin grew 26.0% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 38.0% growth in Knoxville over the same period.
Franklin, TN
$64,647 (2024) → $81,477 (2025)
Knoxville, TN
$55,870 (2019) → $77,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Franklin, TN
Knoxville, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
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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