Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in New Bedford, MA: $81,797 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the New Bedford, MA job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $81,797 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out New Bedford's local price level (BEA RPP 108.5 — 9% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $75,389 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($109,618) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For those entering the field as magnetic resonance imaging technologists in New Bedford, Massachusetts, the starting compensation can be quite promising. In 2026, new graduates can expect an entry-level salary around $81,797, which is notably lower than the city’s median annual income of $109,618. However, as they begin their careers, there's potential for significant salary growth. The trajectory from entry-level earnings to the first quartile at $94,535 reflects an increasing demand for MRI technologists in a city where health care is a priority. Considering New Bedford’s current job market, this career presents a strong opportunity for new technologists to progress financially.
About the New Bedford Market
Salary estimated from Massachusetts average ($102,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in New Bedford
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 New Bedford
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in New Bedford, MA typically start between $81,797 and $94,535 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $63,030 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $109,618 — 9.31% above the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Massachusetts of $12,000 represents just 14.67% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($81,797/year) in New Bedford. 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 New Bedford
- 1Research the New Bedford market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $81,797 to $94,535, 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 New Bedford, 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 New Bedford for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5New Bedford'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 New Bedford is $63,030 ( 77.06%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $81,797, experienced hygienists can earn up to $144,827.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$57,825
2025 BLS Actual
$77,880
2026 Current Est.
$81,797
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in New Bedford (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $57,825 | Actual |
| 2020 | $59,781 | Actual |
| 2021 | $66,824 | Actual |
| 2022 | $76,760 | Actual |
| 2023 | $81,310 | Actual |
| 2024 | $84,793 | Actual |
| 2025 | $77,880 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $81,797 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $85,912 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in New Bedford, MA grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $57,825 in 2019 to $77,880 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $85,912. New graduates entering the New Bedford job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the New Bedford 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 New Bedford
Several employers in New Bedford hire new graduates, including outpatient imaging chains and regional health systems that are willing to invest in cross-training skilled radiologic technologists. Having credentials such as ARRT registration in radiography, and supplemental ARRT(MR) certification, can enhance starting pay in Massachusetts. Moreover, specializations, particularly in cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI, are not only in high demand but also among the fastest-growing areas within the field. A strategic approach early in one's career should include seeking roles at facilities with advanced imaging technology, like those employing 3T or even 7T MRI systems. With a steady growth rate of approximately 5.03% in salary, professionals can anticipate upward mobility and increased earnings within their first three years in the industry.
More salary data for New Bedford, MA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in New Bedford in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in New Bedford?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in New Bedford?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in New Bedford?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Massachusetts?
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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 New Bedford. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for New Bedford 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