Los Angeles vs Thousand Oaks: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Los Angeles, CA and Thousand Oaks, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Angeles, CA | Thousand Oaks, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $115,323▲ | $90,013 |
| Hourly Rate | $55.45▲ | $43.27 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,608▲ | $66,953 |
| 25th Percentile | $89,832▲ | $77,465 |
| 75th Percentile | $142,011▲ | $102,667 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $167,145▲ | $124,478 |
| Total Employed | 1,290▲ | 32 |
Verdict
Los Angeles, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Thousand Oaks.
The salary gap between Los Angeles and Thousand Oaks is $25,310 (28.12%). Los Angeles's median is +15.00% 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,Thousand Oaks spans $57,525. Los Angeles 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, Los Angeles ($101,547 effective) pays 27.59% more than Thousand Oaks ($79,587 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Angeles if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($115,323/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($167,145)
- ✓Larger job market (1,290 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,547)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Thousand Oaks if…
- ✓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 -36.2% growth in Thousand Oaks over the same period.
Los Angeles, CA
$100,430 (2019) → $109,800 (2025)
Thousand Oaks, CA
$134,248 (2024) → $85,702 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Angeles, CA
Thousand Oaks, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Los Angeles or Thousand Oaks?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Angeles and Thousand Oaks?
Should I relocate from Los Angeles to Thousand Oaks as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Los Angeles vs Thousand Oaks?
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