Santa Fe vs South Valley: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Santa Fe, NM and South Valley, NM. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Santa Fe, NM | South Valley, NM |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,584▲ | $91,676 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.95▲ | $44.07 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,530▲ | $64,507 |
| 25th Percentile | $80,086 | $81,172▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $107,048▲ | $102,367 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $128,091▲ | $120,763 |
| Total Employed | 20▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Santa Fe, NM offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Valley.
The salary gap between Santa Fe and South Valley is $3,908 (4.26%). Santa Fe's median is -4.69% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Santa Fe spans $59,561,South Valley spans $56,256. Santa Fe 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 Fe ($101,254 effective) pays 4.26% more than South Valley ($97,114 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Santa Fe if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,584/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($128,091)
- ✓Larger job market (20 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $101,254)
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Choose South Valley if…
- ✓You prefer the New Mexico area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Santa Fe grew 32.6% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in South Valley over the same period.
Santa Fe, NM
$68,626 (2024) → $91,006 (2025)
South Valley, NM
$65,821 (2024) → $87,286 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Santa Fe, NM
South Valley, NM
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Santa Fe or South Valley?
What is the hourly rate difference between Santa Fe and South Valley?
Should I relocate from Santa Fe to South Valley as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Santa Fe vs South Valley?
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