Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Andover, MN: $74,065 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Andover, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $74,065 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Andover's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $75,193 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($95,191) 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 (MRI) technologists in Andover, MN, the initial financial outlook is promising. In 2026, starting positions typically offer a salary around $74,065. While this figure is notably lower than the city's median annual salary of $95,191, it represents a solid entry point into a high-demand specialty. With growing experience, salaries can rise significantly, moving from the entry level through the 25th percentile at $83,718 and eventually reaching the median within a few years. The strong projected growth rate of 5.03% annually suggests that Andover offers a favorable job market for newcomers to the profession.
About the Andover Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Andover
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 Andover
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Andover, MN typically start between $74,065 and $83,718 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $50,663 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $95,191 — 5.08% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Minnesota of $7,500 represents just 10.13% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($74,065/year) in Andover. 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 Andover
- 1Research the Andover market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $74,065 to $83,718, 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 MN often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Andover, 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 Andover for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Andover'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 Andover is $50,663 ( 68.40%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $74,065, experienced hygienists can earn up to $124,728.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$52,359
2025 BLS Actual
$70,518
2026 Current Est.
$74,065
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Andover (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $52,359 | Actual |
| 2020 | $54,130 | Actual |
| 2021 | $60,507 | Actual |
| 2022 | $61,960 | Actual |
| 2023 | $62,923 | Actual |
| 2024 | $66,250 | Actual |
| 2025 | $70,518 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $74,065 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $77,791 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Andover, MN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $52,359 in 2019 to $70,518 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $77,791. New graduates entering the Andover job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Andover 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 Andover
In Andover, internship or job opportunities for recent graduates can be found predominantly within hospital systems or outpatient MRI chains. While established hospital networks often prefer to hire experienced technologists and cross-train them into MRI roles, outpatient facilities may offer sign-on bonuses to attract pre-credentialed MRI techs. Educational credentials, such as ARRT registration in radiography (R) along with an ARRT(MR) post-primary certification, can also enhance starting pay. Career development during the first three years could involve specializing in areas like cardiac MRI or mpMRI, as these are rapidly growing fields. Considering that MRI technology offers some of the highest pay in radiologic fields, graduates who focus on advancing their skills and certifications can look forward to reasonable salary growth in this promising market.
More salary data for Andover, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Andover in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Andover?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Andover?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Andover?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Minnesota?
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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 Andover. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Andover 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