Indianapolis vs South Bend: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Indianapolis, IN and South Bend, IN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Indianapolis, IN | South Bend, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $92,762 | $93,382▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $44.60 | $44.89▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $70,066▲ | $68,396 |
| 25th Percentile | $84,066 | $84,234▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $106,227▲ | $93,540 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,855▲ | $101,848 |
| Total Employed | 300▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Indianapolis and South Bend are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between Indianapolis and South Bend is $620 (0.67%). South Bend's median is -6.88% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Indianapolis spans $37,789,South Bend spans $33,452. Indianapolis 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, South Bend ($100,564 effective) pays 3.75% more than Indianapolis ($96,934 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Indianapolis if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,855)
- ✓Larger job market (300 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Choose South Bend if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($93,382/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $100,564)
- ✓You prefer the Indiana area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Indianapolis grew 26.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 28.3% growth in South Bend over the same period.
Indianapolis, IN
$70,110 (2019) → $88,320 (2025)
South Bend, IN
$69,320 (2020) → $88,910 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Indianapolis, IN
South Bend, IN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Indianapolis or South Bend?
What is the hourly rate difference between Indianapolis and South Bend?
Should I relocate from Indianapolis to South Bend as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Indianapolis vs South Bend?
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