Pierre vs Watertown: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Pierre, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pierre, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,432 | $89,483▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.03 | $43.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,651 | $68,715▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $78,762▲ | $77,668 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,091 | $97,479▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $112,005 | $113,233▲ |
| Total Employed | 4 | 6▲ |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Pierre.
The salary gap between Pierre and Watertown is $2,051 (2.35%). Watertown's median is -10.77% 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,Watertown spans $44,518. 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, Watertown ($96,426 effective) pays 2.35% 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…
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,483/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,233)
- ✓Larger job market (6 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,426)
- ✓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 32.6% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Pierre, SD
$62,774 (2024) → $83,245 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$64,247 (2024) → $85,198 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pierre, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Pierre or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pierre and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Pierre to Watertown as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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