Long Beach vs San Diego: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Long Beach, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Long Beach, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $115,706 | $129,271▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $55.62 | $62.15▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,088 | $78,247▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $99,141▲ | $96,985 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,128 | $149,804▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $166,193▲ | $160,853 |
| Total Employed | 89 | 320▲ |
Verdict
San Diego, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Long Beach.
The salary gap between Long Beach and San Diego is $13,565 (11.72%). San Diego's median is +28.91% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Long Beach spans $90,105,San Diego spans $82,606. Long Beach 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, San Diego ($115,537 effective) pays 12.93% more than Long Beach ($102,304 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Long Beach if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($166,193)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($129,271/year)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $115,537)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Long Beach grew -21.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.1% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Long Beach, CA
$140,596 (2024) → $110,165 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$96,100 (2019) → $123,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Long Beach, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Long Beach or San Diego?
What is the hourly rate difference between Long Beach and San Diego?
Should I relocate from Long Beach to San Diego as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Long Beach vs San Diego?
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