Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Davis, CA: $91,106 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Davis, CA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $91,106 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Davis's local price level (BEA RPP 113.1 — 13% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $80,553 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($125,106) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Davis, California, the entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary is quite competitive, with starting pay projected at $91,106 in 2026. This figure, while below the city’s median annual salary of $125,106, indicates a solid foundation for new graduates entering the field. For newly minted MRI technologists, expect a growth trajectory that can see salaries elevate to about $105,975 within the first few years, positioning individuals closer to the median as they gain experience and expertise. The market in Davis is favorable for recent graduates, offering opportunities in both hospital systems that may train new hires and outpatient centers willing to invest in talent, creating a supportive environment for early-career professionals.
About the Davis Market
Salary estimated from California average ($118,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Davis
New Graduate
Early Career
Mid Career
Experienced
Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Davis
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Davis, CA typically start between $91,106 and $105,975 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $73,506 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $125,106 — 24.75% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in California of $8,000 represents just 8.78% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($91,106/year) in Davis. Most graduates begin earning back their investment from day one, though actual ROI varies based on living expenses, loan interest, and the 2-year opportunity cost of schooling.
Program cost estimates for JRCERT-accredited post-primary MRI certificate programs. Most MRI technologists first complete a radiography program, then add an MRI certificate. Tuition-only averages; actual costs vary by institution.
MRI Tech Salary Negotiation Tips for New Graduates in Davis
- 1Research the Davis market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $91,106 to $105,975, so aim for at least the 25th percentile if you have strong credentials.
- 2Highlight any additional certifications or specialty training within the radiologic technology field — employers in CA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Davis, benefits like health insurance, continuing-education allowances, and schedule flexibility can add 20-30% to your effective compensation.
- 4Consider starting with a larger hospital system or multi-site employer in Davis for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Davis's above-average cost of living (index: 113.1) when evaluating offers — a slightly lower salary in a nearby affordable area may provide better purchasing power.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Compensation Range
The magnetic resonance imaging technologist wage spread in Davis is $73,506 ( 80.68%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $91,106, experienced hygienists can earn up to $164,612.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$64,406
2025 BLS Actual
$86,743
2026 Current Est.
$91,106
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Davis (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $64,406 | Actual |
| 2020 | $66,584 | Actual |
| 2021 | $74,428 | Actual |
| 2022 | $76,216 | Actual |
| 2023 | $77,400 | Actual |
| 2024 | $95,943 | Actual |
| 2025 | $86,743 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $91,106 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $95,689 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Davis, CA grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $64,406 in 2019 to $86,743 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $95,689. New graduates entering the Davis job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Davis metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 2026–2026 figures are current estimates, and 2027 values are projections, calculated using a 5.03% CAGR derived from 7-year BLS historical data. Actual salaries may vary based on employer, experience, certifications, and local market conditions.
Starting Your radiologic technology Career in Davis
When considering potential employers in Davis, new graduates should note that many seek candidates with specific credentials, such as ARRT registration in radiography and an ARRT(MR) post-primary certification, to improve their marketability and starting pay in CA. Outpatient MRI chains often offer sign-on bonuses for pre-credentialed MRI techs, while roles in advanced areas like cardiac MRI typically require experience or training from academic medical centers. Career strategies in the first few years are essential, especially as MRI technology is evolving rapidly and specialty demand remains high. Salary growth for entry-level positions in this market can realistically range from moderate to significant as new technologists build their skills, especially in emerging fields like prostate mpMRI and regions using 3T scanners regularly. Continued education and engagement with professional organizations such as the SMRT will enhance career prospects and ensure up-to-date skills.
More salary data for Davis, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Davis in 2026?
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Is radiologic technology school worth it in Davis?
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Written by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR)
Career Analyst
Carmen has 10 years of experience as an MRI technologist. She specializes in pediatric imaging at a regional hospital. Carmen contributes to various industry publications.
Methodology & Data Source
Entry-level salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The 10th percentile (entry-level) is used as the starting salary benchmark for new radiologic technology graduates. A 5.03% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 entry-level compensation in Davis. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Davis is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).
2026 figures are projected from 2025 BLS data using a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.03%, derived from historical BLS wage trends for magnetic resonance imaging technologists (SOC 29-2035).
Compiled and verified by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR), a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov