Pierre vs Rapid City: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Pierre, SD and Rapid City, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Rapid City, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,432▲ | $85,957 |
| Hourly Rate | $42.03▲ | $41.33 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,651 | $71,021▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,762 | $80,884▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $96,091 | $99,768▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,005▲ | $102,572 |
| Total Employed | 4 | 50▲ |
Verdict
Pierre, SD offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rapid City.
The salary gap between Pierre and Rapid City is $1,475 (1.72%). Pierre's median is -12.81% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pierre spans $48,354,Rapid City spans $31,551. Pierre 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, Rapid City ($96,408 effective) pays 2.33% more than Pierre ($94,216 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pierre if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,432/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($112,005)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,408)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Pierre grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 21.1% growth in Rapid City over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$62,774 (2024) → $83,245 (2025)
Rapid City, SD
$67,590 (2024) → $81,840 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Rapid City, SD
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