Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Cicero, IL: $63,084 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Cicero, IL job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $63,084 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Cicero's local price level (BEA RPP 97.1 — 3% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $64,968 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($86,474) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
New graduates entering the field of magnetic resonance imaging in Cicero can expect a starting salary around $63,084 in 2026, which is significantly lower than the median salary of $86,474 for technologists in the area. This creates a gap that reflects the typical progression one can achieve, moving from entry-level pay towards the 25th percentile at $73,268 and potentially reaching the median within a few years as they gain experience and skills. Given that the growth trajectory is promising, combined with a projected 5.03% annual growth rate, Cicero represents a steady market for newcomers to build their careers in magnetic resonance imaging.
About the Cicero Market
Salary estimated from Illinois average ($84,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Cicero
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 Cicero
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Cicero, IL typically start between $63,084 and $73,268 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $51,002 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $86,474 — 13.77% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Illinois of $7,000 represents just 11.10% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($63,084/year) in Cicero. 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 Cicero
- 1Research the Cicero market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $63,084 to $73,268, 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 IL often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Cicero, 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 Cicero for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Cicero's moderate cost of living means your starting salary goes further here compared to many larger metro areas.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Compensation Range
The magnetic resonance imaging technologist wage spread in Cicero is $51,002 ( 80.85%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $63,084, experienced hygienists can earn up to $114,086.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$44,596
2025 BLS Actual
$60,063
2026 Current Est.
$63,084
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Cicero (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $44,596 | Actual |
| 2020 | $46,104 | Actual |
| 2021 | $51,536 | Actual |
| 2022 | $52,774 | Actual |
| 2023 | $53,594 | Actual |
| 2024 | $58,747 | Actual |
| 2025 | $60,063 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $63,084 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $66,257 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Cicero, IL grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $44,596 in 2019 to $60,063 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $66,257. New graduates entering the Cicero job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Cicero 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 Cicero
Several local employers actively seek new graduates for MRI roles, though those in Cicero often prefer candidates with additional credentials such as the ARRT registration in radiography (R) and the ARRT(MR) post-primary certification. Outpatient imaging centers may be more open to hiring entry-level techs and often offer sign-on bonuses, while larger hospital systems typically invest in training existing staff for MRI specialties, making firsthand experience in cross-training valuable. In the first three years of one's career, obtaining certifications like MRSO and pursuing specializations in emerging areas like cardiac MRI can lead to better job opportunities and salary increases. Considering the high demand for skilled MRI technologists, early-career professionals can realistically expect salary growth aligned with Cicero's developing healthcare landscape.
More salary data for Cicero, IL:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Cicero in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Cicero?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Cicero?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Cicero?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Illinois?
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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 Cicero. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Cicero 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