Philadelphia vs Wilkes-Barre: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Philadelphia, PA and Wilkes-Barre, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Philadelphia, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,581▲ | $87,999 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.79▲ | $42.31 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,414▲ | $63,895 |
| 25th Percentile | $88,918▲ | $74,289 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,158▲ | $96,507 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $121,226▲ | $113,475 |
| Total Employed | 1,160▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Philadelphia, PA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Wilkes-Barre.
The salary gap between Philadelphia and Wilkes-Barre is $15,582 (17.71%). Philadelphia's median is +3.29% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Philadelphia spans $51,812,Wilkes-Barre spans $49,580. Philadelphia 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, Philadelphia ($101,001 effective) pays 11.79% more than Wilkes-Barre ($90,348 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Philadelphia if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,581/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($121,226)
- ✓Larger job market (1,160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,001)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Wilkes-Barre if…
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Philadelphia grew 42.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.1% growth in Wilkes-Barre over the same period.
Philadelphia, PA
$69,140 (2019) → $98,620 (2025)
Wilkes-Barre, PA
$80,514 (2024) → $83,785 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Philadelphia, PA
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Philadelphia or Wilkes-Barre?
What is the hourly rate difference between Philadelphia and Wilkes-Barre?
Should I relocate from Philadelphia to Wilkes-Barre as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Philadelphia vs Wilkes-Barre?
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