Are you thinking about a job as an MRI tech and MRI Tech Salary? Are you curious about your earning potential? You’re in the right place. Let’s talk about what MRI techs do, how much they make, and what can help you earn more money in this career.
✅ What Is an MRI Tech?
An MRI tech (also called an MRI technologist) uses a big machine called an MRI scanner to take detailed pictures of the inside of the body. Doctors use these pictures to check for injuries or diseases.
What MRI Techs Do:
- Talk to patients and help them feel calm.
- Set up the MRI machine.
- Take images of body parts like the brain, spine, or joints.
- Work with doctors to make sure the pictures are clear.
MRI techs work in: Hospitals
- Imaging centers
- Doctor’s offices
- Clinics
💰 How Much Does an MRI Tech Make?
🟢 Average MRI Tech Salary in the U.S.:
MRI technicians often make between $65,000 and $85,000 per year. That’s about $30 to $40 per hour.
🟢 Top MRI Techs Can Earn Over $100,000!
Some techs make over $100,000 a year — especially if they: Work in big cities
- Have lots of experience
- Work night or weekend shifts
- Have extra certifications
📍 MRI Tech Salary by Location
Where you live and work matters a lot. Some states pay more than others.
🏆 Highest-Paying States:
- California
- New York
- Washington
- Massachusetts
- Alaska
You can make $90,000–$105,000 or more in these states.
🧾 Lower-Paying States:
- Mississippi
- Arkansas
- Alabama
In these states, you might make around $60,000–$70,000.
🧑🏫 MRI Tech Salary by Experience
👶 New MRI Techs (0–2 years):
About $60,000–$70,000/year
👨🔧 Mid-Level (3–7 years):
About $75,000–$85,000/year
👨🏫 Experienced (8+ years):
About $90,000–$105,000/year
You can make more money in this industry the longer you work.
🏥 MRI Tech Salary by Workplace
Where you work also affects how much you make.
Workplace Salary Range
Hospitals $80,000 – $85,000
Imaging Centers $70,000 – $75,000
Doctor’s Offices $65,000 – $70,000
Mobile Units $60,000 – $68,000
🎓 Does Education Matter?
Yes! Most MRI techs attend school for about 2 years and get an associate degree.
You can earn more if you go further and get more certifications (like CT scan or X-ray).
🔑 Certifications That Help:
- ARRT (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists)
- CPR Certification
- Extra training in CT or ultrasound
More certifications = more job options + higher pay.
🔁 Can MRI Techs Earn Overtime?
Yes! Many MRI techs earn extra money by working:
- Weekend shifts
- Holidays
- On-call hours
- Night shifts
Hospitals pay more for these shifts. This is called a shift differential.
💡 How to Make More as an MRI Tech
Want to earn a higher salary? Here’s what can help:
- Work in High-Paying States
Move or travel to states like California or New York for better pay. - Get Extra Certifications
Learn CT, X-ray, or Ultrasound to get more job offers and higher pay. - Pick Up Overtime
Work night or weekend shifts if you can. These shifts pay more. - Become a Team Leader
With experience, you can become a lead tech or trainer and earn more. - Work as a Travel Tech
Travel MRI techs go from place to place and often make $100,000+ a year with bonuses and housing.
📊 MRI Tech Salary vs. Other Medical Jobs
| Job Title | Average Salary |
| MRI Technologist | $81,000 |
| X-ray Technologist | $65,000 |
| CT Technologist | $75,000 |
| Ultrasound Technologist | $77,000 |
| Nuclear Medicine Tech | $85,000 |
✅ MRI techs earn more than X-ray techs and are close to other advanced imaging jobs.
🎁 Extra Benefits You Might Get
Most MRI tech jobs include:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Retirement plans
- Shift bonuses
- Education support
These benefits add thousands of dollars in value every year!
🤔 Is It Hard to Become an MRI Tech?
Not really!
Here’s what you need to do:
- Graduate high school or get a GED
- Complete a 2-year program in radiologic technology.
- Get certified by ARRT or another group.
- Start working!
It takes about 2 years in total. You don’t need a 4-year degree.
🌟 Is It a Good Career?
✅ Yes! Here’s why:
- Great pay
- Short training time
- Helping people every day
- Job security
- Growing demand
The job market for MRI techs is growing by 9% — that’s faster than average!
❓ FAQs About MRI Tech Salary
Q: Can MRI techs make over $100,000?
Yes! Especially with experience, certifications, and night/weekend shifts.
Q: How long has MRI tech school been open?
Obtaining an associate degree and certification takes roughly two years.
Q: Do MRI techs get bonuses?
Many do—especially for extra shifts or hard-to-fill positions.
Q: Is it possible for me to work as an MRI tech part-time?
Yes. Many hospitals and clinics offer part-time or per diem shifts.
📝 Final Thoughts
Being an MRI tech is an excellent career if you want:
- A good salary
- Short schooling
- A job in healthcare
- The chance to help people every day
💥 Ready to Start?
Here’s what you can do next:
- Look for MRI tech programs near you.
- Ask about financial aid or online classes.
- Study hard, get certified, and start your journey.
Your future as an MRI tech could be just two years away, and it comes with great pay, benefits, and job security.
