Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Kailua, HI: $87,942 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Kailua, HI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $87,942 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Kailua's local price level (BEA RPP 119.3 — 19% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $73,715 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($118,597) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those embarking on a new career as an MRI technologist in Kailua, Hawaii, the entry-level salary is projected to be around $87,942 in 2026. This figure represents a notable starting point that sits considerably below the city’s median annual salary of $118,597. However, new graduates can expect a trajectory of growth over the first few years, with potential earnings increasing through the 25th percentile at $101,194 and reaching broader median levels as they gain experience. With a growth rate of 5.03% expected annually, Kailua presents a promising market for newcomers to the field, allowing them to step into a well-paying profession despite the initial salary gap.
About the Kailua Market
Salary estimated from Hawaii average ($102,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Kailua
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 Kailua
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Kailua, HI typically start between $87,942 and $101,194 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $66,331 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $118,597 — 18.26% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Hawaii of $9,000 represents just 10.23% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($87,942/year) in Kailua. 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 Kailua
- 1Research the Kailua market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $87,942 to $101,194, 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 HI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Kailua, 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 Kailua for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Factor in Kailua's above-average cost of living (index: 119.3) 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 Kailua is $66,331 ( 75.43%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $87,942, experienced hygienists can earn up to $154,273.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$62,169
2025 BLS Actual
$83,730
2026 Current Est.
$87,942
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Kailua (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $62,169 | Actual |
| 2020 | $64,271 | Actual |
| 2021 | $71,843 | Actual |
| 2022 | $73,569 | Actual |
| 2023 | $74,712 | Actual |
| 2024 | $91,262 | Actual |
| 2025 | $83,730 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $87,942 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $92,365 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Kailua, HI grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $62,169 in 2019 to $83,730 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $92,365. New graduates entering the Kailua job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Kailua 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 Kailua
Hospitals and clinics in Kailua often seek to hire new graduates, but they typically prefer candidates with credentials like the ARRT registration in radiography along with either the ARRT(MR) post-primary certification or ARMRIT registration. This can not only boost starting pay but also ease the transition from academic training to professional practice. Entry-level positions may arise in outpatient imaging centers that actively recruit pre-credentialed technicians, sometimes offering sign-on bonuses to attract talent. For new grads, aligning educational efforts with in-demand skills, such as cardiac MRI, can enhance opportunities. As specialists in fields like prostate mpMRI gain prominence, early-career technologists can expect a competitive pay scale that reflects the high demand for MRI expertise within the industry. Realistically, employers in Kailua may offer salary increases over the first three years, moving entry-level techs towards more substantial pay as they develop their skills and gain certifications, leading to further advancement opportunities.
More salary data for Kailua, HI:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Kailua in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Kailua?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Kailua?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Kailua?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Hawaii?
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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 Kailua. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Kailua 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