San Francisco vs Torrance: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between San Francisco, CA and Torrance, CA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | San Francisco, CA | Torrance, CA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $153,617▲ | $131,488 |
| Hourly Rate | $73.86▲ | $63.22 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $100,388▲ | $89,257 |
| 25th Percentile | $106,500 | $107,084▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $184,968▲ | $151,744 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $191,533▲ | $184,817 |
| Total Employed | 420▲ | 26 |
Verdict
San Francisco, CA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Torrance.
The salary gap between San Francisco and Torrance is $22,129 (16.83%). 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,Torrance spans $95,560. Torrance 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 14.29% more than Torrance ($116,258 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 Torrance 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 Torrance over the same period.
San Francisco, CA
$103,310 (2019) → $146,260 (2025)
Torrance, CA
$135,747 (2024) → $125,191 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
San Francisco, CA
Torrance, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: San Francisco or Torrance?
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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