Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Manhattan, KS: $64,734 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Manhattan, KS job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $64,734 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Manhattan's local price level (BEA RPP 90.9 — 9% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $71,215 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($91,664) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field, the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in Manhattan, Kansas, can expect to begin at around $64,734 in 2026. This figure is significantly below the median annual salary of $91,664, which reflects the earning potential achievable with experience and tenure. Over the first few years, new grads can anticipate salary growth, as entry-level positions progress toward the 25th percentile salary of $76,344 and potentially the median as they hone their skills and gain experience. The local job market in Manhattan is favorable for newly minted MRI technologists, particularly given the projected growth in the field, with a healthy annual growth rate of 5.03% expected in the coming years.
About the Manhattan Market
Salary estimated from Kansas average ($72,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Manhattan
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 Manhattan
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Manhattan, KS typically start between $64,734 and $76,344 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $53,998 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $91,664 — 8.59% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Kansas of $4,500 represents just 6.95% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($64,734/year) in Manhattan. 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 Manhattan
- 1Research the Manhattan market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $64,734 to $76,344, 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 KS often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Manhattan, 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 Manhattan for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Manhattan's below-average 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 Manhattan is $53,998 ( 83.42%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $64,734, experienced hygienists can earn up to $118,732.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$45,763
2025 BLS Actual
$61,634
2026 Current Est.
$64,734
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Manhattan (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $45,763 | Actual |
| 2020 | $47,310 | Actual |
| 2021 | $52,884 | Actual |
| 2022 | $54,155 | Actual |
| 2023 | $54,996 | Actual |
| 2024 | $47,438 | Actual |
| 2025 | $61,634 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $64,734 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $67,990 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Manhattan, KS grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $45,763 in 2019 to $61,634 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $67,990. New graduates entering the Manhattan job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Manhattan 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 Manhattan
Hiring opportunities for entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Manhattan will often come from hospital systems and outpatient imaging centers. Many local hospitals are open to cross-training new graduates as they invest in their staff. However, outpatient chains typically look for pre-credentialed techs, offering competitive sign-on bonuses to attract candidates. To enhance starting pay, obtaining the ARRT registration in radiography, alongside the ARRT(MR) post-primary certification or entry via the ARMRIT credential can be advantageous. Furthermore, maintaining a state license and pursuing specialized training—such as MR safety officer (MRSO) certification—can bolster career prospects. In a market where MRI technologist pay is among the highest in radiologic technology due to the specialization in techniques such as cardiac MRI and MP MRI, new grads can realistically anticipate steady salary increases over the first three years, as they establish themselves in this growing profession.
More salary data for Manhattan, KS:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Manhattan in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Manhattan?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Manhattan?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Manhattan?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Kansas?
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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 Manhattan. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Manhattan 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