Salinas vs San Diego: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Salinas, CA and San Diego, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Salinas, CA | San Diego, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,342▲ | $129,271 |
| Hourly Rate | $63.14▲ | $62.15 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $89,454▲ | $78,247 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,790▲ | $96,985 |
| 75th Percentile | $151,398▲ | $149,804 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $184,312▲ | $160,853 |
| Total Employed | 29 | 320▲ |
Verdict
Salinas, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to San Diego.
The salary gap between Salinas and San Diego is $2,071 (1.60%). Salinas's median is +30.97% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Salinas spans $94,858,San Diego spans $82,606. Salinas 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, Salinas ($116,129 effective) pays 0.51% more than San Diego ($115,537 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Salinas if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($131,342/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($184,312)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $116,129)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose San Diego if…
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Salinas grew -7.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 28.1% growth in San Diego over the same period.
Salinas, CA
$135,596 (2024) → $125,052 (2025)
San Diego, CA
$96,100 (2019) → $123,080 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Salinas, CA
San Diego, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
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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