Kingston vs Rochester: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Kingston, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Kingston, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,891▲ | $85,263 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.55▲ | $40.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $80,019▲ | $77,649 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,800▲ | $84,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,417▲ | $101,974 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $126,253▲ | $103,265 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Kingston, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Kingston and Rochester is $13,628 (15.98%). Kingston's median is -1.39% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Kingston spans $46,234,Rochester spans $25,616. Kingston 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, Rochester ($87,868 effective) pays 2.98% more than Kingston ($85,324 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Kingston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,891/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,253)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,868)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Kingston grew -9.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.3% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Kingston, NY
$104,291 (2024) → $94,155 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$69,180 (2019) → $81,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Kingston, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Kingston or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Kingston and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Kingston to Rochester as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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