Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Owatonna, MN: $70,097 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Owatonna, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $70,097 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Owatonna's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $71,164 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($98,057) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Owatonna, Minnesota, new graduates entering the field of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can expect to see starting salaries that reflect the entry-level pay scale. For those just beginning their careers, the expected salary at the 10th percentile is projected to be around $70,097 in 2026. Although this figure is significantly lower than the city’s overall median salary of $98,057, it sets a realistic benchmark for recent graduates. This entry-level salary allows new MRI technologists to realistically anticipate a growth trajectory over the first few years, moving from the entry-level range towards the 25th percentile, which stands at approximately $81,661, and even aiming for the median as they gain experience. Given the growing demand for MRI services, Owatonna presents a promising job market for fresh graduates looking to establish their careers.
About the Owatonna Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Owatonna
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 Owatonna
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Owatonna, MN typically start between $70,097 and $81,661 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $54,324 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $98,057 — 2.22% 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 ($70,097/year) in Owatonna. 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 Owatonna
- 1Research the Owatonna market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $70,097 to $81,661, 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 Owatonna, 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 Owatonna for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Owatonna'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 Owatonna is $54,324 ( 77.50%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $70,097, experienced hygienists can earn up to $124,421.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$49,554
2025 BLS Actual
$66,740
2026 Current Est.
$70,097
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Owatonna (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $49,554 | Actual |
| 2020 | $51,230 | Actual |
| 2021 | $57,265 | Actual |
| 2022 | $58,641 | Actual |
| 2023 | $59,552 | Actual |
| 2024 | $62,807 | Actual |
| 2025 | $66,740 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $70,097 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $73,623 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Owatonna, MN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $49,554 in 2019 to $66,740 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $73,623. New graduates entering the Owatonna job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Owatonna 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 Owatonna
In Owatonna, various employers seek entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists, although competition can be fierce. Key hiring entities include local hospital systems, which often prefer to recruit experienced radiologic technologists and cross-train them in MRI. For new graduates, outpatient imaging centers may offer more direct roles with the potential for sign-on bonuses, especially for those already holding credentials such as the ARRT registration in radiography (R) and the ARRT(MR) post-primary certification. Continuing education through organizations like the SMRT within ISMRM can also significantly enhance earning potential, particularly as subspecialties like cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI continue to grow rapidly. Realistically, new grads can expect their salaries to rise each year, particularly if they pursue additional qualifications such as the MR safety officer (MRSO) certification or if they find positions at research institutions using advanced 7T scanners. This proactive approach will set the stage for a rewarding and financially viable career in the ever-evolving field of MRI technology in Owatonna, MN.
More salary data for Owatonna, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Owatonna in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Owatonna?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Owatonna?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Owatonna?
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 Owatonna. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Owatonna 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