La Crosse vs Madison: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between La Crosse, WI and Madison, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | La Crosse, WI | Madison, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,535 | $99,379▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.52 | $47.78▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,479 | $84,077▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $74,579 | $87,606▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $100,116 | $105,146▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $119,196▲ | $107,582 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 40▲ |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to La Crosse.
The salary gap between La Crosse and Madison is $8,844 (9.77%). Madison's median is -0.90% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in La Crosse spans $53,717,Madison spans $23,505. La Crosse 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, Madison ($102,150 effective) pays 5.38% more than La Crosse ($96,933 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose La Crosse if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,196)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,379/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,150)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in La Crosse grew 7.4% from 2022 to 2025, compared to 30.3% growth in Madison over the same period.
La Crosse, WI
$80,280 (2022) → $86,199 (2025)
Madison, WI
$72,620 (2019) → $94,620 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
La Crosse, WI
Madison, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: La Crosse or Madison?
What is the hourly rate difference between La Crosse and Madison?
Should I relocate from La Crosse to Madison as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in La Crosse vs Madison?
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