Knoxville vs Oak Ridge: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Knoxville, TN and Oak Ridge, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Knoxville, TN | Oak Ridge, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $80,957▲ | $79,430 |
| Hourly Rate | $38.92▲ | $38.19 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $66,032▲ | $57,274 |
| 25th Percentile | $69,456▲ | $66,760 |
| 75th Percentile | $82,648 | $86,823▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $96,470 | $106,850▲ |
| Total Employed | 190▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Knoxville, TN offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Oak Ridge.
The salary gap between Knoxville and Oak Ridge is $1,527 (1.92%). Knoxville's median is -19.27% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Knoxville spans $30,438,Oak Ridge spans $49,576. Oak Ridge 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, Knoxville ($87,456 effective) pays 1.08% more than Oak Ridge ($86,525 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Knoxville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($80,957/year)
- ✓Larger job market (190 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $87,456)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Oak Ridge if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,850)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Knoxville grew 38.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 16.6% growth in Oak Ridge over the same period.
Knoxville, TN
$55,870 (2019) → $77,080 (2025)
Oak Ridge, TN
$64,849 (2024) → $75,626 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Knoxville, TN
Oak Ridge, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Knoxville or Oak Ridge?
What is the hourly rate difference between Knoxville and Oak Ridge?
Should I relocate from Knoxville to Oak Ridge as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Knoxville vs Oak Ridge?
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