Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Amherst, MA: $76,749 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Amherst, MA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $76,749 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Amherst's local price level (BEA RPP 108.5 — 9% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $70,736 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($107,819) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of magnetic resonance imaging in Amherst, Massachusetts, the starting pay can be quite encouraging. The entry level magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in 2026 is projected to begin at around $76,749. While this figure is below the city median annual salary of $107,819, it provides a solid foundation for growth. Early-career professionals can expect to progress through the first few years, reaching around $96,117 at the 25th percentile—a testament to the promising upward trajectory in this field. Given Amherst's status as a market with a developing healthcare sector, new grads may find favorable opportunities for gaining experience and advancing their careers quickly in the initial years.
About the Amherst Market
Salary estimated from Massachusetts average ($102,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Amherst
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 Amherst
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Amherst, MA typically start between $76,749 and $96,117 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $59,940 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $107,819 — 7.51% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Massachusetts of $12,000 represents just 15.64% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($76,749/year) in Amherst. 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 Amherst
- 1Research the Amherst market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $76,749 to $96,117, 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 MA often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Amherst, 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 Amherst for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Amherst'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 Amherst is $59,940 ( 78.10%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $76,749, experienced hygienists can earn up to $136,689.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$54,256
2025 BLS Actual
$73,073
2026 Current Est.
$76,749
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Amherst (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $54,256 | Actual |
| 2020 | $56,091 | Actual |
| 2021 | $62,699 | Actual |
| 2022 | $64,205 | Actual |
| 2023 | $65,202 | Actual |
| 2024 | $79,712 | Actual |
| 2025 | $73,073 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $76,749 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $80,609 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Amherst, MA grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $54,256 in 2019 to $73,073 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $80,609. New graduates entering the Amherst job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Amherst 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 Amherst
In the competitive job market of 2026, hospitals and outpatient clinics in Amherst are potential employers actively hiring new magnetic resonance imaging technologists. Often, hospital systems tend to prioritize seasoned technologists, but they may also consider entry-level candidates willing to cross-train into MRI. Outpatient chains specifically seek pre-credentialed MRI techs and even offer sign-on bonuses, which can help boost initial compensation. Credentials play a significant role in maximizing entry-level salaries—registration through ARRT in radiography (R) coupled with ARRT(MR) certification or direct entry via ARMRIT can significantly enhance a candidate's appeal. During the first three years, those who gain experience with advanced 3T and 7T scanners at research sites or focus on in-demand subspecialties such as cardiac MRI or mpMRI can see substantial salary growth. By strategically pursuing continuing education and gaining relevant certifications, new grads can position themselves for a robust career path in this high-demand field.
More salary data for Amherst, MA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Amherst in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Amherst?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Amherst?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Amherst?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Massachusetts?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in Massachusetts
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 Amherst. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Amherst 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