Mesa vs Prescott: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Mesa, AZ and Prescott, AZ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Mesa, AZ | Prescott, AZ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $102,369▲ | $95,305 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.22▲ | $45.82 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $73,843 | $73,940▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $86,735▲ | $83,959 |
| 75th Percentile | $114,527▲ | $105,861 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $138,454▲ | $125,100 |
| Total Employed | 98▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Mesa, AZ offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Prescott.
The salary gap between Mesa and Prescott is $7,064 (7.41%). Mesa's median is +2.08% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Mesa spans $64,611,Prescott spans $51,160. Mesa 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, Mesa ($103,928 effective) pays 7.41% more than Prescott ($96,756 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Mesa if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($102,369/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($138,454)
- ✓Larger job market (98 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $103,928)
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Choose Prescott if…
- ✓You prefer the Arizona area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Mesa grew 7.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 11.0% growth in Prescott over the same period.
Mesa, AZ
$91,044 (2024) → $97,466 (2025)
Prescott, AZ
$81,732 (2024) → $90,741 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Prescott, AZ
Frequently Asked Questions
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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