Great Falls vs Missoula: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Great Falls, MT and Missoula, MT. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Great Falls, MT | Missoula, MT |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,214▲ | $94,342 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.26▲ | $45.35 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,667 | $70,345▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $79,174 | $81,075▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $109,979▲ | $105,620 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $132,646▲ | $126,368 |
| Total Employed | 12 | 16▲ |
Verdict
Great Falls, MT offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Missoula.
The salary gap between Great Falls and Missoula is $1,872 (1.98%). Great Falls's median is -4.06% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Great Falls spans $65,979,Missoula spans $56,023. Great Falls 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, Great Falls ($100,015 effective) pays 1.98% more than Missoula ($98,069 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Great Falls if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,214/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($132,646)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,015)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Choose Missoula if…
- ✓Larger job market (16 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Montana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Great Falls grew 22.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.0% growth in Missoula over the same period.
Great Falls, MT
$74,835 (2024) → $91,606 (2025)
Missoula, MT
$74,250 (2019) → $89,824 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Great Falls, MT
Missoula, MT
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Great Falls or Missoula?
What is the hourly rate difference between Great Falls and Missoula?
Should I relocate from Great Falls to Missoula 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