Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Fridley, MN: $70,077 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Fridley, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $70,077 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Fridley's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $71,144 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($93,688) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the magnetic resonance imaging technologist field in Fridley, MN, can expect a starting salary around $70,077, reflecting the early career stage of the profession. While this is a competitive entry-level figure compared to the overall city median salary of $93,688, it represents a clear opportunity for growth. As entry-level technologists gain experience, they can anticipate moving towards the 25th percentile salary of $80,606 within a few years, edging closer to the median as they develop their skills and expertise. Fridley offers a supportive landscape for recent graduates, providing avenues for skill enhancement and advancement opportunities in a specialty that enjoys high demand.
About the Fridley Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Fridley
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 Fridley
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Fridley, MN typically start between $70,077 and $80,606 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $53,147 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $93,688 — 6.58% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Minnesota of $7,500 represents just 10.70% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($70,077/year) in Fridley. 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 Fridley
- 1Research the Fridley market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $70,077 to $80,606, 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 Fridley, 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 Fridley for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Fridley'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 Fridley is $53,147 ( 75.84%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $70,077, experienced hygienists can earn up to $123,224.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$49,540
2025 BLS Actual
$66,721
2026 Current Est.
$70,077
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Fridley (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $49,540 | Actual |
| 2020 | $51,215 | Actual |
| 2021 | $57,249 | Actual |
| 2022 | $58,624 | Actual |
| 2023 | $59,535 | Actual |
| 2024 | $62,731 | Actual |
| 2025 | $66,721 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $70,077 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $73,602 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Fridley, MN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $49,540 in 2019 to $66,721 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $73,602. New graduates entering the Fridley job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Fridley 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 Fridley
Understanding where to seek employment can dramatically influence the trajectory of your career as a new grad magnetic resonance imaging technologist in MN. Hospitals typically favor experienced rad techs but may invest in training new hires through in-house programs, allowing for a smooth transition to MRI technology. Moreover, outpatient MRI centers are keen on recruiting pre-credentialed MRI techs and may offer sign-on bonuses, which can further supplement starting income. To boost earning potential from the outset, candidates should prioritize obtaining ARRT registration in radiography and ARRT(MR) certification or consider the ARMRIT pathway. Given the specialty's high earning potential, particularly with advancements in 3T and 7T scanning technologies, those with a focus on cardiac MRI and mpMRI can experience quick salary growth. In the first few years on the job, MRI techs in Fridley may see their earnings rise significantly as they acquire valuable skills and additional certifications such as the MR safety officer (MRSO) credential.
More salary data for Fridley, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Fridley in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Fridley?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Fridley?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Fridley?
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 Fridley. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Fridley 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