Pittsburgh vs Wilkes-Barre: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Pittsburgh, PA and Wilkes-Barre, PA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Pittsburgh, PA | Wilkes-Barre, PA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,116 | $87,999▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.92 | $42.31▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $40,983 | $63,895▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,380▲ | $74,289 |
| 75th Percentile | $96,270 | $96,507▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,879 | $113,475▲ |
| Total Employed | 310▲ | 11 |
Verdict
Wilkes-Barre, PA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Pittsburgh.
The salary gap between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre is $2,883 (3.39%). Wilkes-Barre's median is -12.25% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Pittsburgh spans $65,896,Wilkes-Barre spans $49,580. Pittsburgh 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, Wilkes-Barre ($90,348 effective) pays 0.49% more than Pittsburgh ($89,907 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Pittsburgh if…
- ✓Larger job market (310 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Choose Wilkes-Barre if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,999/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,475)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $90,348)
- ✓You prefer the Pennsylvania area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Pittsburgh grew 37.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 4.1% growth in Wilkes-Barre over the same period.
Pittsburgh, PA
$59,050 (2019) → $81,040 (2025)
Wilkes-Barre, PA
$80,514 (2024) → $83,785 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Pittsburgh, PA
Wilkes-Barre, PA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Pittsburgh or Wilkes-Barre?
What is the hourly rate difference between Pittsburgh and Wilkes-Barre?
Should I relocate from Pittsburgh to Wilkes-Barre as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Pittsburgh 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