Travel MRI Technologist Salary Guide

MRI technologists are allied health professionals who operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment. This type of imaging uses strong magnets and a radio frequency current to take three-dimensional images of the human body. Before imaging, the MRI technologist must ask questions about the patient's medical history and then position the patient in the MRI scanner. When necessary, the technologist injects contrast media into an intravenous line to enhance the appearance of specific structures. After performing the scan, an MRI technologist reviews the images to confirm they meet the ordering physician's requirements.

How do you become an MRI technologist?

To become an MRI technologist, you must obtain an associate degree in radiologic technology or MRI technology. This 2-year degree includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, patient care and other relevant topics. Accredited programs also include clinical experience requirements to ensure you know how to operate MRI equipment safely. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, as of April 3, 2023, six states require MRI technologists to be licensed, which include:

  • New Hampshire

  • New Mexico

  • North Dakota

  • Oregon

  • Tennessee

  • West Virginia

If you intend to start as a radiologic technologist and become an MRI technologist later, you may need to obtain a license before you start working, as 42 states require a license to work as a radiologic technologist. Check with your state licensing body to learn exactly what you need to work as an MRI or radiologic technologist in your area.

Average Travel MRI Technologist Salary

$2,552/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,552 per week. This is 3% higher than the practicing US average of $2,463.

Last updated on December 17, 2025. Based on 6,309 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

Salaries for Travel MRI Technologist compared to Allied Health Professional National Averages

$2,552/week

3% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,463/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
North Dakota$3,405$3,706
Wyoming$3,356$3,606
Alaska$3,145$3,422
South Dakota$3,131$3,380
Vermont$3,085$3,600
New Jersey$3,024$3,603
Minnesota$2,965$3,449
Massachusetts$2,878$3,802
California$2,853$4,301
Washington$2,814$3,720
Maryland$2,804$3,415
New York$2,803$3,705
Montana$2,741$3,120
Pennsylvania$2,732$3,416
Wisconsin$2,719$3,266
New Hampshire$2,717$3,536
Louisiana$2,709$3,082
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Oakland, California$4,203$4,301
San Leandro, California$4,076$4,100
Fall River, Massachusetts$3,594$3,594
Waldorf, Maryland$3,415$3,415
Fargo, North Dakota$3,411$3,706
Lebanon, New Hampshire$3,393$3,536
Providence, Rhode Island$3,389$3,389
West Des Moines, Iowa$3,329$3,329
Danbury, Connecticut$3,318$3,318
Salem, Virginia$3,288$3,406
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Cuready Healthcare Staffing$4,000$4,000
Tact Staff$3,838$3,838
Ghost RX Inc$3,688$3,688
Enterprise Solutions, Inc (NimbusNest, Inc)$3,511$3,511
Express Healthcare Staffing NY$3,464$3,644
Curam Staffing$3,412$3,705
iDEAL Hire$3,360$3,360
Allied 24/7$3,356$3,400
Smarter Healthcare Partners$3,351$3,600
E-SolHealth$3,320$3,320

Last updated on December 17, 2025. Information based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

A Nurse holding a file folder

Travel MRI Technologist Career Guide

Use our exclusive Career Guides to research the education, qualifications, skills and responsibilities for a variety of healthcare disciplines and specialties employers are hiring now.

Go to the guide
Was this page helpful?

Get alerts about new jobs and salary trends

Be the first to know about new jobs for MRI Technologists with the salary that suits you.

How can you increase your pay as a travel MRI technologist?

Travel MRI technologists earn approximately 17.8% more than staff MRI techs, allowing you to make more without investing in additional education or certifications.

How much does an travel MRI technologist make?

According to Vivian's data, travel MRI technologists averaged $2,497 for the week ending in April 8, 2023, which works out to $32,461 for a 13-week contract or $64,922 for a 26-week contract.

Do travel MRI technologists earn more than staff MRI technologists?

Travel MRI technologists generally make more than staff MRI technologists. On April 8, 2023, Vivian Health reported that staff jobs paid an average of $52.98 per hour, or $2,120 weekly in a standard 40-hour workweek. In contrast, travel MRI technologists earned an average of $2,497 per week, an increase of nearly $400.

What states employ the most MRI technologists?

BLS data for 2021 shows that the following states employ the most MRI technologists:

  • Florida: 3,270

  • Texas: 2,690

  • Illinois: 2,560

  • California” 2,470

  • New York: 2,230

Featured Blog Posts

Open article How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Medical Imaging
Artificial Intelligence in medical imaging
How Artificial Intelligence Is Transforming Medical Imaging
Explore how AI supports radiologists and improves patient care, and ongoing privacy concerns.
Open article Career Options: Radiography or Sonography
Radiographer - Radiography or Sonography Career
Career Options: Radiography or Sonography
Discover which role has better pay and the benefits and challenges of both career paths.
Open article 3 In-Demand Medical Imaging Careers & What They Pay
Medical imaging career
3 In-Demand Medical Imaging Careers & What They Pay
Rewarding work and pay? Explore key roles in radiography, sonography and MRI technology.
See more Blog Posts