Hot Springs vs Little Rock: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Hot Springs, AR and Little Rock, AR. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Hot Springs, AR | Little Rock, AR |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,292▲ | $83,856 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.00▲ | $40.32 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $61,152 | $64,951▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $71,429 | $74,277▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $92,981 | $95,483▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,071▲ | $102,478 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 150▲ |
Verdict
Hot Springs, AR offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Little Rock.
The salary gap between Hot Springs and Little Rock is $1,436 (1.71%). Hot Springs's median is -14.95% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Hot Springs spans $47,919,Little Rock spans $37,527. Hot Springs 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, Hot Springs ($98,150 effective) pays 4.60% more than Little Rock ($93,836 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Hot Springs if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,292/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,071)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,150)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Choose Little Rock if…
- ✓Larger job market (150 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Arkansas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Hot Springs grew 44.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.0% growth in Little Rock over the same period.
Hot Springs, AR
$56,134 (2024) → $81,207 (2025)
Little Rock, AR
$60,470 (2019) → $79,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Hot Springs, AR
Little Rock, AR
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Hot Springs or Little Rock?
What is the hourly rate difference between Hot Springs and Little Rock?
Should I relocate from Hot Springs to Little Rock as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Hot Springs vs Little Rock?
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