Sioux Falls vs Watertown: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Sioux Falls, SD and Watertown, SD. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Sioux Falls, SD | Watertown, SD |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $79,308 | $89,483▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $38.13 | $43.02▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $53,733 | $68,715▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,874 | $77,668▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $87,311 | $97,479▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $100,062 | $113,233▲ |
| Total Employed | 120▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Watertown, SD offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Sioux Falls.
The salary gap between Sioux Falls and Watertown is $10,175 (12.83%). Watertown's median is -10.77% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Sioux Falls spans $46,329,Watertown spans $44,518. Sioux Falls 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, Watertown ($96,426 effective) pays 10.19% more than Sioux Falls ($87,506 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Sioux Falls if…
- ✓Larger job market (120 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Choose Watertown if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($89,483/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($113,233)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,426)
- ✓You prefer the South Dakota area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Sioux Falls grew 27.3% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Watertown over the same period.
Sioux Falls, SD
$59,320 (2019) → $75,510 (2025)
Watertown, SD
$64,247 (2024) → $85,198 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Sioux Falls, SD
Watertown, SD
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Sioux Falls or Watertown?
What is the hourly rate difference between Sioux Falls and Watertown?
Should I relocate from Sioux Falls to Watertown as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Sioux Falls vs Watertown?
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