Lake Forest vs San Francisco: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Lake Forest, CA and San Francisco, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Lake Forest, CA | San Francisco, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $126,918 | $153,617▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $61.02 | $73.86▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $94,911 | $100,388▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $106,889▲ | $106,500 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,689 | $184,968▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $170,997 | $191,533▲ |
| Total Employed | 14 | 420▲ |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Lake Forest.
The salary gap between Lake Forest and San Francisco is $26,699 (21.04%). San Francisco's median is +53.18% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Lake Forest spans $76,086,San Francisco spans $91,145. San Francisco 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, San Francisco ($132,872 effective) pays 18.41% more than Lake Forest ($112,218 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Lake Forest if…
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($153,617/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($191,533)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $132,872)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Lake Forest grew -7.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 41.6% growth in San Francisco over the same period.
Lake Forest, CA
$131,029 (2024) → $120,840 (2025)
San Francisco, CA
$103,310 (2019) → $146,260 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Lake Forest, CA
San Francisco, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Lake Forest or San Francisco?
What is the hourly rate difference between Lake Forest and San Francisco?
Should I relocate from Lake Forest to San Francisco as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Lake Forest vs San Francisco?
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