Houston vs Waco: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Houston, TX and Waco, TX. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Houston, TX | Waco, TX |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,729▲ | $95,208 |
| Hourly Rate | $51.79▲ | $45.77 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,623▲ | $68,010 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,071▲ | $79,809 |
| 75th Percentile | $113,506▲ | $108,675 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,986 | $131,304▲ |
| Total Employed | 820▲ | 22 |
Verdict
Houston, TX offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Waco.
The salary gap between Houston and Waco is $12,521 (13.15%). Houston's median is +7.42% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Houston spans $35,363,Waco spans $63,294. Waco has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Houston ($109,226 effective) pays 10.14% more than Waco ($99,175 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Houston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($107,729/year)
- ✓Larger job market (820 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $109,226)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Choose Waco if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($131,304)
- ✓You prefer the Texas area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Houston grew 36.6% from 2020 to 2025, compared to 14.5% growth in Waco over the same period.
Houston, TX
$75,070 (2020) → $102,570 (2025)
Waco, TX
$79,141 (2024) → $90,648 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Houston, TX
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