Gardner vs Olathe: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Gardner, KS and Olathe, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gardner, KS | Olathe, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,532 | $91,467▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.64 | $43.98▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,869 | $67,679▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,793 | $78,448▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,423 | $100,531▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,129 | $126,028▲ |
| Total Employed | 6 | 33▲ |
Verdict
Olathe, KS offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gardner.
The salary gap between Gardner and Olathe is $6,935 (8.20%). Olathe's median is -8.79% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gardner spans $42,260,Olathe spans $58,349. Olathe has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Olathe ($100,624 effective) pays 8.20% more than Gardner ($92,994 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gardner if…
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Olathe if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,467/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,028)
- ✓Larger job market (33 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,624)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Gardner grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Olathe over the same period.
Gardner, KS
$60,692 (2024) → $80,484 (2025)
Olathe, KS
$65,671 (2024) → $87,087 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gardner, KS
Olathe, KS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Gardner or Olathe?
What is the hourly rate difference between Gardner and Olathe?
Should I relocate from Gardner to Olathe as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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