Madison vs River Falls: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Madison, WI and River Falls, WI. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Madison, WI | River Falls, WI |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $99,379▲ | $88,259 |
| Hourly Rate | $47.78▲ | $42.43 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $84,077▲ | $64,697 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,606▲ | $77,837 |
| 75th Percentile | $105,146▲ | $97,303 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,582 | $113,555▲ |
| Total Employed | 40▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Madison, WI offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to River Falls.
The salary gap between Madison and River Falls is $11,120 (12.60%). Madison's median is -0.90% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Madison spans $23,505,River Falls spans $48,858. River Falls 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, Madison ($102,150 effective) pays 8.10% more than River Falls ($94,496 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Madison if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,379/year)
- ✓Larger job market (40 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,150)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Choose River Falls if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,555)
- ✓You prefer the Wisconsin area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Madison grew 30.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.4% growth in River Falls over the same period.
Madison, WI
$72,620 (2019) → $94,620 (2025)
River Falls, WI
$70,408 (2024) → $84,032 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Madison, WI
River Falls, WI
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Madison or River Falls?
What is the hourly rate difference between Madison and River Falls?
Should I relocate from Madison to River Falls as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Madison vs River Falls?
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