Gulfport vs Laurel: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Gulfport, MS and Laurel, MS. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gulfport, MS | Laurel, MS |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,610▲ | $79,484 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.16▲ | $38.21 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,155 | $62,519▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,325▲ | $70,067 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,472▲ | $86,031 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $117,822▲ | $99,300 |
| Total Employed | 14▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Gulfport, MS offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Laurel.
The salary gap between Gulfport and Laurel is $6,126 (7.71%). Gulfport's median is -14.63% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Gulfport spans $58,667,Laurel spans $36,781. Gulfport 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, Gulfport ($99,895 effective) pays 7.71% more than Laurel ($92,747 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gulfport if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,610/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($117,822)
- ✓Larger job market (14 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,895)
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Choose Laurel if…
- ✓You prefer the Mississippi area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Gulfport grew 19.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 54.0% growth in Laurel over the same period.
Gulfport, MS
$68,490 (2019) → $81,510 (2025)
Laurel, MS
$49,141 (2024) → $75,677 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gulfport, MS
Laurel, MS
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Gulfport or Laurel?
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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