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

$2,362/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,362 per week. This is 1% higher than the practicing US average of $2,347.

Last updated on May 8, 2024. Based on 5,468 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

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

$2,362/week

1% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,347/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Alaska$3,028$3,598
New Hampshire$2,812$3,729
Nebraska$2,788$3,253
Massachusetts$2,676$3,497
Connecticut$2,650$3,137
Hawaii$2,635$3,550
Oklahoma$2,620$3,112
Minnesota$2,586$3,189
Rhode Island$2,582$2,907
New York$2,570$3,663
South Dakota$2,565$2,972
New Jersey$2,552$3,512
Washington$2,545$4,177
Idaho$2,529$2,852
California$2,524$3,462
Iowa$2,516$2,722
Maine$2,514$3,881
Virginia$2,477$3,139
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Seattle, Washington$3,434$4,177
Merced, California$3,038$3,291
Aberdeen, Maryland$3,021$3,565
Olathe, Kansas$2,930$3,130
Rochester, Minnesota$2,924$3,105
Hillsboro, Oregon$2,919$3,436
Staten Island, New York$2,906$3,663
Sioux Falls, South Dakota$2,902$2,972
Lebanon, New Hampshire$2,902$3,729
Palo Alto, California$2,900$3,203
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
HealthTrust Workforce Solution External$3,881$3,881
FlexStaff$3,663$3,663
ICONMA$3,550$3,550
Preferred Healthcare Staffing$3,285$3,459
Halcyon Nurse Staffing$3,240$3,240
Aptiva Healthcare$3,200$3,400
Plains Medical Staffing$3,192$3,192
Corratel Healthcare$3,137$4,177
MSSI$3,132$3,132
Lifeline Healthcare Professionals$3,122$3,122

Last updated on May 8, 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 Surgical Technician vs. Surgical Technologist: What’s the Difference?
Surgical Technician vs. Surgical Technologist
Surgical Technician vs. Surgical Technologist: What’s the Difference?
Explore these two roles with important OR duties. Learn which career path is right for you.
Open article Certified Surgical Technologist Programs: In-Person vs. Online CST Programs
RN first assist / Surgical tech
Certified Surgical Technologist Programs: In-Person vs. Online CST Programs
Investigate the pros and cons to determine the right format for you.
Open article Where Do Certified Surgical Technologists Make the Most Money?
Where Do Certified Surgical Technologists Make the Most Money?
Discover factors that impact salary and top-paying states for staff and travel positions.
See more Blog Posts