How Much Do MRI Technologists Make?
$77,360median annual salary
$37.19/hour · $6,447/month · BLS Code: 29-2035
MRI technologists operate magnetic resonance imaging scanners to produce cross-sectional images of patients' bodies. They work closely with radiologists, position patients, ensure image quality, and maintain safety protocols around powerful magnets. MRI tech is a strong career path within medical imaging.
MRI Technologist Salary at a Glance
Entry Level
$58,440
Starting salary
Median
$77,360
50th percentile
Senior Level
$100,290
Experienced professionals
Top 10%
$104,280
90th percentile
Salary Range
Salary by Experience Level
Top Paying States for MRI Technologists
#1
California
$108,380
#2
Hawaii
$101,460
#3
Washington
$98,740
#4
Oregon
$96,110
#5
Massachusetts
$93,670
Top Paying Cities for MRI Technologists
Education & Requirements
Education
Associate's or bachelor's degree in radiologic technology with MRI specialization
Typical Degree
Associate's or Bachelor's in Radiologic Technology
Certifications
Job Outlook
+6%
Projected Growth (2022-2032)
45_400
Total Employed
BLS Outlook Category
Get Glen’s Updates
Investing insights, new tools, and whatever I’m building this week. Free. No spam.
Unsubscribe anytime. I respect your inbox more than Congress respects property rights.
MRI Technologist Salary FAQ
How much do MRI technologists make?
The median salary is about $77,360. MRI techs in California average $108,380. With specialization (cardiac MRI, interventional MRI), salaries can exceed $100,000 in high-paying areas.
How long does it take to become an MRI technologist?
2-4 years for the radiologic technology degree plus additional MRI-specific training (6-12 months). Some programs offer combined 2-year MRI-specific associate's degrees.
Is MRI tech a good career?
Yes. It offers good pay ($77K median) for a 2-year degree, 6% growth, and interesting work with advanced technology. The work environment is clean and climate-controlled compared to other healthcare roles.
MRI tech vs ultrasound tech: which pays more?
Ultrasound technicians earn slightly more ($81,350 median vs. $77,360). Both are excellent allied health careers with similar education requirements and strong growth outlooks.
Related Careers
Recommended Resources
Tools & books I actually use and recommend
SeekingAlpha Premium
Quant ratings, earnings transcripts, and the stock analysis community where I published 300+ articles.
Try SeekingAlphaA Random Walk Down Wall Street
Burton Malkiel's classic case for index investing. The book that convinced millions to stop stock-picking.
View on AmazonThe Little Book of Common Sense Investing
John Bogle's manifesto on why low-cost index funds beat everything else. Straight from the founder of Vanguard.
View on AmazonSome links above are affiliate links. I only recommend products I personally use. See my full disclosures.
Keep Exploring
All Career Salary Guides
Compare mri technologist pay to 40+ other careers.
Read moreCalculatorSalary to Hourly Calculator
Convert annual salary to hourly, weekly, and monthly pay.
Read moreCalculatorNet Worth by Age
See how your net worth compares to others your age.
Read moreCalculatorFIRE Calculator
How long until financial independence at your salary?
Read moreCalculatorSavings Rate Calculator
What savings rate does your salary support?
Read moreCalculatorInvestment Fee Calculator
See how fees erode your retirement savings over time.
Read moreSalary data is based on BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics, industry surveys, and widely-reported compensation benchmarks. Figures are approximate and vary by location, employer, experience, and market conditions. This is educational content — not career or financial advice.