Kansas City vs Joplin: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Kansas City, MO and Joplin, MO. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kansas City, MO | Joplin, MO |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,267▲ | $74,025 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.44▲ | $35.58 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,323▲ | $69,750 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,263▲ | $74,025 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,415▲ | $94,453 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,257▲ | $97,961 |
| Total Employed | 390▲ | 40 |
Verdict
Kansas City, MO offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Joplin.
The salary gap between Kansas City and Joplin is $14,242 (19.24%). Kansas City's median is -11.98% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kansas City spans $29,934,Joplin spans $28,211. Kansas City 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, Kansas City ($95,379 effective) pays 10.45% more than Joplin ($86,359 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kansas City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,267/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($107,257)
- ✓Larger job market (390 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $95,379)
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Choose Joplin if…
- ✓You prefer the Missouri area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Kansas City grew 18.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 12.9% growth in Joplin over the same period.
Kansas City, MO
$70,770 (2019) → $84,040 (2025)
Joplin, MO
$62,410 (2019) → $70,480 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kansas City, MO
Joplin, MO
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Kansas City or Joplin?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kansas City and Joplin?
Should I relocate from Kansas City to Joplin as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Kansas City vs Joplin?
Related Comparisons
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