Gardner vs Wichita: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Gardner, KS and Wichita, KS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gardner, KS | Wichita, KS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,532▲ | $79,098 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.64▲ | $38.03 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,869▲ | $66,074 |
| 25th Percentile | $74,793▲ | $70,727 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,423▲ | $90,830 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,129▲ | $97,730 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 70▲ |
Verdict
Gardner, KS offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wichita.
The salary gap between Gardner and Wichita is $5,434 (6.87%). Gardner's median is -15.71% 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,Wichita spans $31,656. Gardner 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, Gardner ($92,994 effective) pays 4.57% more than Wichita ($88,928 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gardner if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($84,532/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,129)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,994)
- ✓You prefer the Kansas area and lifestyle
Choose Wichita if…
- ✓Larger job market (70 employed)
- ✓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 20.7% growth in Wichita over the same period.
Gardner, KS
$60,692 (2024) → $80,484 (2025)
Wichita, KS
$62,380 (2021) → $75,310 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gardner, KS
Wichita, KS
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