Rochester vs Utica: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Rochester, NY and Utica, NY. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Rochester, NY | Utica, NY |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,263 | $99,821▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $40.99 | $47.99▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $77,649 | $79,004▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $84,129 | $84,581▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $101,974 | $107,299▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $103,265 | $116,079▲ |
| Total Employed | 250▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Utica, NY offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Rochester.
The salary gap between Rochester and Utica is $14,558 (17.07%). Utica's median is -0.46% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Rochester spans $25,616,Utica spans $37,075. Utica 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, Utica ($107,707 effective) pays 22.58% more than Rochester ($87,868 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Rochester if…
- ✓Larger job market (250 employed)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Choose Utica if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($99,821/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,079)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $107,707)
- ✓You prefer the New York area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Rochester grew 17.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 60.2% growth in Utica over the same period.
Rochester, NY
$69,180 (2019) → $81,180 (2025)
Utica, NY
$59,310 (2019) → $95,040 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Rochester, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Rochester or Utica?
What is the hourly rate difference between Rochester and Utica?
Should I relocate from Rochester to Utica as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Rochester vs Utica?
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