Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Edina, MN: $69,480 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Edina, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $69,480 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Edina's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $70,538 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($95,494) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates aiming to embark on a career as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Edina, MN, the starting pay can be quite competitive yet varied. Entry-level positions typically pay around $69,480, which is below the city's median salary of $95,494. While the gap might seem significant, early-career technologists can expect to see their salaries increase gradually, reaching approximately $80,772 within a few years as they gain experience and possibly specialize. Projections for 2026 indicate a growth rate of 5.03%, suggesting that Edina currently provides a favorable environment for newly credentialed MRI technologists to establish their careers.
About the Edina Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Edina
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 Edina
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Edina, MN typically start between $69,480 and $80,772 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $59,516 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $95,494 — 4.78% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Minnesota of $7,500 represents just 10.79% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($69,480/year) in Edina. 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 Edina
- 1Research the Edina market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $69,480 to $80,772, 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 Edina, 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 Edina for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Edina'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 Edina is $59,516 ( 85.66%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $69,480, experienced hygienists can earn up to $128,996.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$49,118
2025 BLS Actual
$66,153
2026 Current Est.
$69,480
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Edina (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $49,118 | Actual |
| 2020 | $50,779 | Actual |
| 2021 | $56,762 | Actual |
| 2022 | $58,125 | Actual |
| 2023 | $59,028 | Actual |
| 2024 | $62,194 | Actual |
| 2025 | $66,153 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $69,480 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $72,975 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Edina, MN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $49,118 in 2019 to $66,153 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $72,975. New graduates entering the Edina job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Edina 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 Edina
In the Edina market, several types of employers are in search of entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists. While larger hospital systems may prefer to hire experienced professionals for their MRI departments, many outpatient MRI facilities actively recruit pre-credentialed technologists, sometimes offering enticing sign-on bonuses. Those looking to accelerate their career should consider obtaining ARRT registration in radiography (R) and pursuing an ARRT(MR) post-primary certification; earning a state license and certifications like the MRSO can further enhance earning potential. Given the high demand for specialized roles, such as cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI, which are among the fastest growing areas within the field, new technologists can expect realistic salary advancements within their first three years of employment as they build their skills and qualifications in this lucrative sector.
More salary data for Edina, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
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How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Edina?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Edina?
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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 Edina. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Edina 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