Hillsboro vs Salem: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Hillsboro, OR and Salem, OR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hillsboro, OR | Salem, OR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,603▲ | $128,053 |
| Hourly Rate | $62.31▲ | $61.57 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $91,555 | $99,505▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $107,963 | $108,948▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $144,279▲ | $136,182 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $172,754▲ | $137,736 |
| Total Employed | 22 | 30▲ |
Verdict
Hillsboro, OR offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Hillsboro and Salem is $1,550 (1.21%). Hillsboro's median is +29.24% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hillsboro spans $81,199,Salem spans $38,231. Hillsboro 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, Hillsboro ($126,319 effective) pays 2.25% more than Salem ($123,545 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hillsboro if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,603/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($172,754)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $126,319)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Larger job market (30 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Oregon area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Hillsboro grew 14.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.1% growth in Salem over the same period.
Hillsboro, OR
$108,104 (2024) → $123,396 (2025)
Salem, OR
$92,260 (2019) → $121,920 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hillsboro, OR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Hillsboro or Salem?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hillsboro and Salem?
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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