Nashville vs Memphis: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Nashville, TN and Memphis, TN. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Nashville, TN | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,618▲ | $84,854 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.64▲ | $40.79 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,122 | $71,032▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $81,629 | $82,386▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $99,022▲ | $86,933 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $113,306▲ | $102,362 |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 270 |
Verdict
Nashville, TN offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Memphis.
The salary gap between Nashville and Memphis is $1,764 (2.08%). Nashville's median is -13.63% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Nashville spans $45,184,Memphis spans $31,330. Nashville 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, Memphis ($92,054 effective) pays 2.38% more than Nashville ($89,911 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Nashville if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($86,618/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,306)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Choose Memphis if…
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,054)
- ✓You prefer the Tennessee area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Nashville grew 19.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 37.1% growth in Memphis over the same period.
Nashville, TN
$68,910 (2019) → $82,470 (2025)
Memphis, TN
$58,920 (2019) → $80,790 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Nashville, TN
Memphis, TN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Nashville or Memphis?
What is the hourly rate difference between Nashville and Memphis?
Should I relocate from Nashville to Memphis as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Nashville vs Memphis?
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