Orlando vs Panama City: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Orlando, FL and Panama City, FL. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Orlando, FL | Panama City, FL |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $88,204▲ | $87,063 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.41▲ | $41.85 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,641▲ | $64,731 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,121▲ | $74,347 |
| 75th Percentile | $103,297▲ | $94,557 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $104,610 | $110,321▲ |
| Total Employed | 350▲ | 8 |
Verdict
Orlando, FL offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Panama City.
The salary gap between Orlando and Panama City is $1,141 (1.31%). Orlando's median is -12.04% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Orlando spans $32,969,Panama City spans $45,590. Panama City 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, Orlando ($86,971 effective) pays 0.69% more than Panama City ($86,372 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Orlando if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($88,204/year)
- ✓Larger job market (350 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,971)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Choose Panama City if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,321)
- ✓You prefer the Florida area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Orlando grew 19.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 34.7% growth in Panama City over the same period.
Orlando, FL
$70,220 (2019) → $83,980 (2025)
Panama City, FL
$61,520 (2019) → $82,893 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Orlando, FL
Panama City, FL
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Orlando or Panama City?
What is the hourly rate difference between Orlando and Panama City?
Should I relocate from Orlando to Panama City as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Orlando vs Panama City?
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