MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) technologists work in varied healthcare settings, most often in hospitals with smaller numbers employed with medical diagnostic laboratories, physician offices, and outpatient care centers. As of May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimated that approximately 41,300 MRI technologists were employed in the United States. The BLS further estimated that, as of May 2023, the national mean salary for MRI technologists was $ 86,600 per year. From state to state there was a very wide disparity in MRI technologist pay, with professionals in some regions of the country earning 50% or more than their counterparts elsewhere. Per BLS annual mean salary data as of May 2023, the ten best and worst states for MRI technologist pay were:
The Best and Worst States for MRI Technologist Pay
| Best Paying States | |
| California | $114,680 |
| Alaska | $109,830 |
| Washington | $109,750 |
| Oregon | $106,620 |
| Hawaii | $106,610 |
| District of Columbia | $99,330 |
| New Jersey | $98,880 |
| Vermont | $97,880 |
| New York | $96,900 |
| Colorado | $95,680 |
| Worst Paying States | |
| Florida | $75,850 |
| West Virginia | $75,810 |
| Michigan | $74,380 |
| Tennessee | $73,170 |
| Arkansas | $73,140 |
| Iowa | $71,100 |
| Alabama | $69,040 |
| Louisiana | $67,840 |
| Mississippi | $67,650 |
| South Dakota | $66,950 |
(*) annual mean wage ranking among the 50 states and the District of Columbia
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics OES. Data extracted on July 27, 2024
