Long Beach vs Rochester: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Long Beach, NY and Rochester, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Long Beach, NY | Rochester, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,995▲ | $85,263 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.99▲ | $40.99 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $76,236 | $77,649▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $88,006▲ | $84,129 |
| 75th Percentile | $112,171▲ | $101,974 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $130,503▲ | $103,265 |
| Total Employed | 7 | 250▲ |
Verdict
Long Beach, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Long Beach and Rochester is $18,732 (21.97%). Long Beach's median is +3.70% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Long Beach spans $54,267,Rochester spans $25,616. 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, Long Beach ($89,728 effective) pays 2.12% more than Rochester ($87,868 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Long Beach if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,995/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($130,503)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $89,728)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓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 Long Beach grew -9.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 17.3% growth in Rochester over the same period.
Long Beach, NY
$109,674 (2024) → $99,015 (2025)
Rochester, NY
$69,180 (2019) → $81,180 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Long Beach, NY
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Long Beach or Rochester?
What is the hourly rate difference between Long Beach and Rochester?
Should I relocate from Long Beach to Rochester as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Long Beach 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