Las Cruces vs Los Alamos: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Las Cruces, NM and Los Alamos, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Las Cruces, NM | Los Alamos, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $97,805▲ | $87,254 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.02▲ | $41.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,215▲ | $67,752 |
| 25th Percentile | $79,374▲ | $76,553 |
| 75th Percentile | $108,824▲ | $95,822 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,657▲ | $111,658 |
| Total Employed | 28▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Las Cruces, NM offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Los Alamos.
The salary gap between Las Cruces and Los Alamos is $10,551 (12.09%). Las Cruces's median is -2.47% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Las Cruces spans $61,442,Los Alamos spans $43,906. Las Cruces 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, Las Cruces ($103,607 effective) pays 12.09% more than Los Alamos ($92,430 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Las Cruces if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($97,805/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,657)
- ✓Larger job market (28 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,607)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Los Alamos if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Las Cruces grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Los Alamos over the same period.
Las Cruces, NM
$70,221 (2024) → $93,121 (2025)
Los Alamos, NM
$62,645 (2024) → $83,075 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Las Cruces, NM
Los Alamos, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Las Cruces or Los Alamos?
What is the hourly rate difference between Las Cruces and Los Alamos?
Should I relocate from Las Cruces to Los Alamos as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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