Trenton vs West Orange: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Trenton, NJ and West Orange, NJ. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Trenton, NJ | West Orange, NJ |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $107,603 | $114,556▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $51.73 | $55.08▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $87,763▲ | $85,127 |
| 25th Percentile | $96,785 | $97,791▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $110,618 | $126,854▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,995 | $149,160▲ |
| Total Employed | 60▲ | 11 |
Verdict
West Orange, NJ offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Trenton.
The salary gap between Trenton and West Orange is $6,953 (6.46%). West Orange's median is +14.23% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Trenton spans $33,232,West Orange spans $64,033. West Orange 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, Trenton ($104,287 effective) pays 4.87% more than West Orange ($99,441 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Trenton if…
- ✓Larger job market (60 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $104,287)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Choose West Orange if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($114,556/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($149,160)
- ✓You prefer the New Jersey area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Trenton grew 31.7% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 1.6% growth in West Orange over the same period.
Trenton, NJ
$77,800 (2019) → $102,450 (2025)
West Orange, NJ
$107,380 (2024) → $109,070 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Trenton, NJ
West Orange, NJ
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Trenton or West Orange?
What is the hourly rate difference between Trenton and West Orange?
Should I relocate from Trenton to West Orange as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Trenton vs West Orange?
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