San Francisco vs Irvine: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Irvine, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Irvine, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $153,617▲ | $134,285 |
| Hourly Rate | $73.86▲ | $64.56 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $100,388▲ | $95,148 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,500 | $112,859▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $184,968▲ | $157,314 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $191,533▲ | $189,291 |
| Total Employed | 420▲ | 72 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Irvine.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Irvine is $19,332 (14.40%). San Francisco's median is +53.18% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in San Francisco spans $91,145,Irvine spans $94,143. Irvine 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, San Francisco ($132,872 effective) pays 11.91% more than Irvine ($118,731 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose San Francisco if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($153,617/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($191,533)
- ✓Larger job market (420 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $132,872)
- ✓You prefer the California area and lifestyle
Choose Irvine if…
- ✓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 Francisco grew 41.6% from 2019 to 2025, compared to -7.8% growth in Irvine over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$103,310 (2019) → $146,260 (2025)
Irvine, CA
$138,634 (2024) → $127,854 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Irvine, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: San Francisco or Irvine?
What is the hourly rate difference between San Francisco and Irvine?
Should I relocate from San Francisco to Irvine as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in San Francisco vs Irvine?
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