Richmond vs Salem: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Richmond, VA and Salem, VA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Richmond, VA | Salem, VA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $103,644▲ | $100,343 |
| Hourly Rate | $49.83▲ | $48.24 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $82,732▲ | $70,698 |
| 25th Percentile | $86,188 | $89,012▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $105,954 | $108,345▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $106,133 | $126,230▲ |
| Total Employed | 160▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Richmond, VA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Salem.
The salary gap between Richmond and Salem is $3,301 (3.29%). Richmond's median is +3.35% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Richmond spans $23,401,Salem spans $55,532. Salem 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, Richmond ($105,913 effective) pays 8.93% more than Salem ($97,232 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Richmond if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($103,644/year)
- ✓Larger job market (160 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $105,913)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose Salem if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($126,230)
- ✓You prefer the Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Richmond grew 43.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 19.3% growth in Salem over the same period.
Richmond, VA
$68,860 (2019) → $98,680 (2025)
Salem, VA
$80,048 (2024) → $95,537 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Richmond, VA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Richmond or Salem?
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Should I relocate from Richmond to Salem 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