Lackawanna vs Rochester: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Lackawanna, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lackawanna, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $98,740▲ | $85,263 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.47▲ | $40.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $79,641▲ | $77,649 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,478▲ | $84,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,077▲ | $101,974 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $125,778▲ | $103,265 |
| Total Employed | 5 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Lackawanna, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Lackawanna and Rochester is $13,477 (15.81%). Lackawanna's median is -1.54% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lackawanna spans $46,137,Rochester spans $25,616. Lackawanna 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 3.14% more than Lackawanna ($85,194 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lackawanna if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($98,740/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($125,778)
- ✓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 Lackawanna grew -9.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.3% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Lackawanna, NY
$104,132 (2024) → $94,011 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$69,180 (2019) → $81,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lackawanna, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Lackawanna or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lackawanna and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Lackawanna to Rochester as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Lackawanna vs Rochester?
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