Seattle vs Bellevue: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Seattle, WA and Bellevue, WA. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Seattle, WA | Bellevue, WA |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $137,022 | $138,365▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $65.87 | $66.53▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $104,904▲ | $94,515 |
| 25th Percentile | $130,542▲ | $113,133 |
| 75th Percentile | $164,572▲ | $154,812 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $171,924 | $195,252▲ |
| Total Employed | 460▲ | 26 |
Verdict
Bellevue, WA offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Seattle.
The salary gap between Seattle and Bellevue is $1,343 (0.98%). Bellevue's median is +37.97% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Seattle spans $67,020,Bellevue spans $100,737. Bellevue 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, Bellevue ($128,831 effective) pays 4.49% more than Seattle ($123,296 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Seattle if…
- ✓Larger job market (460 employed)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Choose Bellevue if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($138,365/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($195,252)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $128,831)
- ✓You prefer the Washington area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Seattle grew 28.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 11.4% growth in Bellevue over the same period.
Seattle, WA
$101,780 (2019) → $130,460 (2025)
Bellevue, WA
$118,300 (2024) → $131,739 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Seattle, WA
Bellevue, WA
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Seattle or Bellevue?
What is the hourly rate difference between Seattle and Bellevue?
Should I relocate from Seattle to Bellevue as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Seattle vs Bellevue?
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