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

$2,538/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,538 per week. This is 6% higher than the practicing US average of $2,391.

Last updated on December 17, 2024. Based on 7,547 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

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

$2,538/week

6% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,391/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
South Dakota$3,174$3,314
North Dakota$3,109$3,806
Nebraska$2,955$3,433
Massachusetts$2,946$3,520
Maryland$2,921$3,583
Colorado$2,873$3,762
New Hampshire$2,847$3,648
Minnesota$2,831$3,604
Montana$2,789$3,460
Vermont$2,770$3,321
New Jersey$2,756$3,502
Iowa$2,745$3,116
California$2,736$3,584
New York$2,717$4,101
Wisconsin$2,699$3,520
Kentucky$2,695$3,530
Pennsylvania$2,657$3,612
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Laurel, Maryland$3,583$3,583
Warwick, Rhode Island$3,400$3,400
Rochester, New York$3,389$4,101
Wayne, New Jersey$3,334$3,334
Sioux Falls, South Dakota$3,307$3,314
Haverhill, Massachusetts$3,300$3,300
Vail, Colorado$3,297$3,762
Rochester, Minnesota$3,253$3,380
Lebanon, New Hampshire$3,207$3,648
Fargo, North Dakota$3,179$3,806
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Curam Staffing$4,101$4,101
FlexStaff$3,663$3,663
MedicalPeople Staffing, LLC$3,621$3,621
Elite Medical Staffing$3,500$3,500
Malone Healthcare - Allied$3,468$3,468
Converdia Health Staffing$3,326$3,326
Prokatchers$3,308$3,308
Consolidated Medical Travel$3,303$3,884
Rock Medical Group$3,286$3,286
Access Healthcare Direct$3,262$3,262

Last updated on December 17, 2024. 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 The Fastest Growing Allied Health Careers in 2025
Radiology or X-Ray Technologist in allied health
The Fastest Growing Allied Health Careers in 2025
Get the facts you need to plan your healthcare career path in a top-paying, in-demand specialty.
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.
Open article Which Radiology Certifications Offer the Best Job Opportunities?
Radiology certification class
Which Radiology Certifications Offer the Best Job Opportunities?
Boost your job prospects and potentially get a higher salary with the right credentials.
See more Blog Posts