The median MRI technologist salary in the United States is $95,480 per year. Salaries range from $55,000 to over $127,000 depending on experience, certification, and location. Technologists in California and Washington tend to earn the highest wages due to demand and cost of living.
National Average Salary for MRI Technologists
MRI technologists in the U.S. earn a median salary of $95,480 per year, with a wide pay range from $55,000 to over $127,000. This variation depends on several factors including location, certification, and job setting. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary is $95,480, while Vivian Health reports a national average of $104,000, which is 23% higher than the average for allied health occupations.
MRI Technologist Salary Overview
| Location/Source | Hourly Average | Annual Average | Median Annual | Range (Annual) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States (Vivian) | $50.00 | ~$104,000* | N/A | N/A | 23% above US allied health average |
| United States (Salary.com) | N/A | $90,956 | $84,023 | $74,927–$93,382 | MRI Tech I, as of May 2025 |
| United States (BLS) | $45.91 | $95,480 | $95,480 | N/A | Median, May 2025 |
| United States (US News) | N/A | N/A | $83,740 | $75,360–$99,340 | 2023 data |
| Buffalo, NY (ZipRecruiter) | $51.36 | $106,829 | N/A | N/A | As of April 2025 |
| Buffalo, NY (Indeed) | N/A | ~$148,616** | N/A | N/A | $2,858/week, April 2025 |
| ASRT (2022, All Disciplines) | N/A | $91,709 | $84,854 | N/A | Staff Technologist: $76,600 |
Salary by State
MRI technologists in states like California, Washington, and Massachusetts earn some of the highest wages in the country. High cost of living and strong demand for radiologic imaging services drive these rates. In Seattle, for example, MRI jobs often offer pay above $50/hour.
- California: $120,560 mean annual wage
- Washington: $119,770 mean annual wage
- Massachusetts: $111,980 mean annual wage
- New York (e.g., Buffalo): Up to $148,616/year based on Indeed estimates
MRI technologists in southern or rural states tend to earn less, but may benefit from lower living costs.
Salary by Experience Level
Entry-level MRI technologists usually earn between $55,000 and $70,000, while experienced technologists can exceed $120,000 per year. More years on the job lead to better wages, especially when combined with specialty skills.
- 0–2 years (Entry Level): $55,000–$70,000
- 2–5 years (Early Career): $70,000–$90,000
- 5–10 years (Experienced): $85,000–$105,000
- 10+ years (Senior/Lead): $95,000–$120,000+
Those with advanced certifications or who perform complex scans like cardiac or pediatric MRI can earn even more.
Salary by Employer Type
Outpatient care centers often pay higher hourly wages than hospitals, though hospitals may offer better benefits and long-term stability.
| Employer Type | Average Pay | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Outpatient Imaging | Higher hourly, fewer benefits | Best for per diem or travel techs |
| Hospitals | Moderate pay, full benefits | Retirement plans, health insurance |
| Travel MRI Agencies | Up to 40% more weekly | Housing stipends, tax-free benefits |
| Private Practices | Pay varies widely | Depends on region and patient volume |
Technologists working in travel roles or per diem contracts can often earn $100,000 to $180,000 annually ($2,000 to $3,500 per week) through a combination of taxable wages and tax-free housing stipends. Due to ongoing MRI tech shortages, many employers also offer sign-on bonuses of $2,000 to $10,000.
MRI vs. CT Technologist Salary
A common question among prospective imaging professionals is who gets paid more: MRI or CT techs? According to recent data, MRI technologists earn a median of $95,480 compared to $80,110 for radiologic and CT technologists. This annual gap of roughly $15,400 reflects the specialized safety training, longer exam times, and smaller talent pool associated with magnetic resonance imaging.
Impact of Education and Certification
MRI technologists with ARRT certification and multiple imaging credentials (such as CT or computed tomography) earn more than those with basic qualifications. Most employers prefer technologists who are certified and can perform multiple types of scans.
- Associate Degree + ARRT: Minimum requirement for most jobs
- Dual certification (e.g., CT & MRI): Boosts job flexibility and income
- Continuing education: Required to maintain certification and increase value
Advanced credentials also help technologists lead departments or train new hires, increasing income potential.
Salary Trends and Job Outlook
MRI technologist salaries are projected to grow steadily due to high demand for diagnostic imaging and an aging population. The BLS expects a 6% increase in jobs from 2022 to 2032, faster than average for most occupations.
- Increased demand for MRI scans to assess soft tissue injuries and chronic illness
- More employers offering imaging in outpatient settings
- Continued growth in computed tomography and specialty MRI areas
Technologists who can perform multiple scan types, communicate clearly with patients, and adapt to new MRI technology will lead in salary growth.
Key Factors That Influence MRI Technologist Pay
The top 5 factors that determine how much an MRI technologist earns are:
- Location: States like California and Washington lead in pay
- Experience: Higher pay with more years in the field
- Certifications: Dual or advanced certifications improve earnings
- Employer Type: Outpatient and travel roles typically pay more
- Shifts Worked: Nights and weekends increase hourly wages
Technologists who continuously improve their skills, gain certifications, and work in high-demand areas can maximize their salary potential.
Popular Questions
Below are common questions we get asked about this topic.
Do MRI technologists earn more in outpatient imaging centers or hospitals?
Outpatient imaging centers often offer higher hourly pay, but hospitals may offer better benefits and stability.
How does working night shifts or weekends affect MRI technologist pay?
Shift differentials typically add $2–$5 per hour, increasing total earnings for evening, weekend, or holiday work.
Are MRI technologists paid more for holding multiple certifications (e.g., CT, X-ray)?
Yes. Certified technologists in more than one modality often earn bonuses or higher base pay.
How do travel MRI technologist salaries compare to permanent staff positions?
Travel MRI jobs can pay 20–40% more, especially with stipends and tax advantages included.
Can MRI technologists increase their salary by specializing in certain types of MRI (e.g., cardiac, pediatric)?
Yes. Niche specialties like cardiac or functional MRI often command higher wages due to limited expertise and high demand.
Who gets paid more, MRI or CT techs?
MRI technologists typically earn more. Recent data shows MRI technologists earn a median of $95,480 compared to $80,110 for radiologic and CT technologists.
Is it worth becoming an MRI tech?
Yes. With a median salary over $95,000, strong job growth, and opportunities for travel contracts paying up to $180,000 annually, many find the career highly rewarding.