Rapid City vs Spearfish: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Rapid City, SD and Spearfish, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rapid City, SD | Spearfish, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,957 | $89,231▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.33 | $42.90▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $71,021▲ | $65,314 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,884▲ | $80,639 |
| 75th Percentile | $99,768▲ | $95,012 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,572 | $109,371▲ |
| Total Employed | 50▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Spearfish, SD offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rapid City.
The salary gap between Rapid City and Spearfish is $3,274 (3.81%). Spearfish's median is -11.02% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rapid City spans $31,551,Spearfish spans $44,057. Spearfish 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, Rapid City ($96,408 effective) pays 0.26% more than Spearfish ($96,154 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rapid City if…
- ✓Larger job market (50 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,408)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Spearfish if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,231/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,371)
- ✓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 Rapid City grew 21.1% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Spearfish over the same period.
Rapid City, SD
$67,590 (2024) → $81,840 (2025)
Spearfish, SD
$64,066 (2024) → $84,958 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rapid City, SD
Spearfish, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Rapid City or Spearfish?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rapid City and Spearfish?
Should I relocate from Rapid City to Spearfish as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Rapid City vs Spearfish?
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