Riverside vs San Jose: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Riverside, CA and San Jose, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Riverside, CA | San Jose, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $111,342 | $185,851▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $53.53 | $89.35▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,812 | $109,011▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $87,238 | $137,642▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $139,910 | $185,851▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $154,930 | $188,760▲ |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 220 |
Verdict
San Jose, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Riverside.
The salary gap between Riverside and San Jose is $74,509 (66.92%). San Jose's median is +85.33% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Riverside spans $89,118,San Jose spans $79,749. Riverside 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, San Jose ($168,308 effective) pays 60.90% more than Riverside ($104,603 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Riverside if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Jose if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($185,851/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($188,760)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $168,308)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Riverside grew 15.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 83.4% growth in San Jose over the same period.
Riverside, CA
$91,720 (2019) → $106,010 (2025)
San Jose, CA
$96,470 (2019) → $176,950 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Riverside, CA
San Jose, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Riverside or San Jose?
What is the hourly rate difference between Riverside and San Jose?
Should I relocate from Riverside to San Jose as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Riverside vs San Jose?
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