Oklahoma City vs Tulsa: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Oklahoma City, OK and Tulsa, OK. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Oklahoma City, OK | Tulsa, OK |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $96,680▲ | $91,849 |
| Hourly Rate | $46.49▲ | $44.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,617▲ | $74,676 |
| 25th Percentile | $85,253▲ | $81,829 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,108▲ | $96,302 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,847▲ | $105,965 |
| Total Employed | 210▲ | 110 |
Verdict
Oklahoma City, OK offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Tulsa.
The salary gap between Oklahoma City and Tulsa is $4,831 (5.26%). Oklahoma City's median is -3.59% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Oklahoma City spans $24,230,Tulsa spans $31,289. Tulsa 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, Oklahoma City ($106,937 effective) pays 3.87% more than Tulsa ($102,954 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Oklahoma City if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($96,680/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($106,847)
- ✓Larger job market (210 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $106,937)
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Choose Tulsa if…
- ✓You prefer the Oklahoma area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Oklahoma City grew 33.9% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 33.3% growth in Tulsa over the same period.
Oklahoma City, OK
$68,760 (2019) → $92,050 (2025)
Tulsa, OK
$65,580 (2019) → $87,450 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Oklahoma City, OK
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Oklahoma City or Tulsa?
What is the hourly rate difference between Oklahoma City and Tulsa?
Should I relocate from Oklahoma City to Tulsa as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Oklahoma City vs Tulsa?
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