Los Lunas vs Santa Fe: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Los Lunas, NM and Santa Fe, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Los Lunas, NM | Santa Fe, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,987 | $95,584▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.31 | $45.95▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,938▲ | $68,530 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,094 | $80,086▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,603 | $107,048▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,942 | $128,091▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 20▲ |
Verdict
Santa Fe, NM offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Los Lunas.
The salary gap between Los Lunas and Santa Fe is $7,597 (8.63%). Santa Fe's median is -4.69% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Los Lunas spans $41,004,Santa Fe spans $59,561. Santa Fe 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 Fe ($101,254 effective) pays 8.63% more than Los Lunas ($93,207 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Los Lunas if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose Santa Fe if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,584/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,091)
- ✓Larger job market (20 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,254)
- ✓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 Los Lunas grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Santa Fe over the same period.
Los Lunas, NM
$63,172 (2024) → $83,773 (2025)
Santa Fe, NM
$68,626 (2024) → $91,006 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Los Lunas, NM
Santa Fe, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Los Lunas or Santa Fe?
What is the hourly rate difference between Los Lunas and Santa Fe?
Should I relocate from Los Lunas to Santa Fe as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Los Lunas vs Santa Fe?
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