Los Angeles vs Santa Clara: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Santa Clara, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Santa Clara, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $115,323 | $188,966▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $55.45 | $90.85▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,608 | $131,901▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $89,832 | $163,199▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $142,011 | $208,843▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,145 | $250,064▲ |
| Total Employed | 1,290▲ | 32 |
Verdict
Santa Clara, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Los Angeles.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Santa Clara is $73,643 (63.86%). Santa Clara's median is +88.43% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Angeles spans $99,537,Santa Clara spans $118,163. Santa Clara 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, Santa Clara ($167,079 effective) pays 64.53% more than Los Angeles ($101,547 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Larger job market (1,290 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Santa Clara if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($188,966/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($250,064)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $167,079)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Los Angeles grew 9.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 31.3% growth in Santa Clara over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$100,430 (2019) → $109,800 (2025)
Santa Clara, CA
$137,052 (2024) → $179,916 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Santa Clara, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Los Angeles or Santa Clara?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Santa Clara?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Santa Clara as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Los Angeles vs Santa Clara?
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