Kailua vs Urban Honolulu: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Kailua, HI and Urban Honolulu, HI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kailua, HI | Urban Honolulu, HI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $118,597 | $125,374▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $57.02 | $60.28▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,942 | $111,269▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $101,194 | $117,970▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $131,149 | $134,596▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $154,273▲ | $136,182 |
| Total Employed | 6 | 110▲ |
Verdict
Urban Honolulu, HI offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Kailua.
The salary gap between Kailua and Urban Honolulu is $6,777 (5.71%). Urban Honolulu's median is +25.02% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kailua spans $66,331,Urban Honolulu spans $24,913. Kailua 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, Urban Honolulu ($112,989 effective) pays 13.66% more than Kailua ($99,411 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kailua if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($154,273)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Choose Urban Honolulu if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($125,374/year)
- ✓Larger job market (110 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $112,989)
- ✓You prefer the Hawaii area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Kailua grew -6.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 19.3% growth in Urban Honolulu over the same period.
Kailua, HI
$120,627 (2024) → $112,917 (2025)
Urban Honolulu, HI
$100,080 (2019) → $119,370 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kailua, HI
Urban Honolulu, HI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Kailua or Urban Honolulu?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kailua and Urban Honolulu?
Should I relocate from Kailua to Urban Honolulu as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Kailua vs Urban Honolulu?
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