San Diego vs Santa Maria: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between San Diego, CA and Santa Maria, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Diego, CA | Santa Maria, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $129,271 | $131,981▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $62.15 | $63.46▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $78,247 | $96,397▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $96,985 | $104,274▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $149,804▲ | $147,924 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $160,853▲ | $159,331 |
| Total Employed | 320▲ | 30 |
Verdict
San Diego and Santa Maria are closely matched on overall magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation, each winning on different metrics.
The salary gap between San Diego and Santa Maria is $2,710 (2.10%). Santa Maria's median is +31.61% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Diego spans $82,606,Santa Maria spans $62,934. San Diego 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, Santa Maria ($121,308 effective) pays 5.00% 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 San Diego if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($160,853)
- ✓Larger job market (320 employed)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Santa Maria if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($131,981/year)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $121,308)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in San Diego grew 28.1% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -5.9% growth in Santa Maria over the same period.
San Diego, CA
$96,100 (2019) → $123,080 (2025)
Santa Maria, CA
$133,472 (2024) → $125,660 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Diego, CA
Santa Maria, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: San Diego or Santa Maria?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Diego and Santa Maria?
Should I relocate from San Diego to Santa Maria as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in San Diego vs Santa Maria?
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