Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Savage, MN: $74,827 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Savage, MN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $74,827 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Savage's local price level (BEA RPP 98.5 — 1% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $75,966 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($95,505) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates eager to start their careers in the field of magnetic resonance imaging in Savage, Minnesota, the entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary is projected to start at approximately $74,827 in 2026. While this starting pay is lower than the city’s median salary of $95,505, it provides a solid foundation for career growth. Over the first few years, many entry-level technologists can expect to see their salaries rise from $84,376 at the 25th percentile towards the median as they gain experience and enhance their skills. Given the anticipated annual growth rate of 5.03%, Savage presents a promising job market for new grads, particularly as the demand for qualified MRI technologists continues to rise.
About the Savage Market
Salary estimated from Minnesota average ($88,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Savage
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 Savage
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Savage, MN typically start between $74,827 and $84,376 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $50,920 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $95,505 — 4.76% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Minnesota of $7,500 represents just 10.02% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($74,827/year) in Savage. 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 Savage
- 1Research the Savage market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $74,827 to $84,376, 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 Savage, 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 Savage for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Savage'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 Savage is $50,920 ( 68.05%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $74,827, experienced hygienists can earn up to $125,747.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$52,897
2025 BLS Actual
$71,243
2026 Current Est.
$74,827
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Savage (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $52,897 | Actual |
| 2020 | $54,686 | Actual |
| 2021 | $61,129 | Actual |
| 2022 | $62,597 | Actual |
| 2023 | $63,570 | Actual |
| 2024 | $66,922 | Actual |
| 2025 | $71,243 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $74,827 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $78,590 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Savage, MN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $52,897 in 2019 to $71,243 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $78,590. New graduates entering the Savage job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Savage 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 Savage
In Savage, a variety of employers actively recruit entry-level MRI technologists, although new graduates should be aware of the specific dynamics of the job market. Local hospital systems often prefer to hire experienced radiologic technologists and then provide in-house training to transition them into MRI roles, while outpatient MRI chains may offer enticing sign-on bonuses for pre-credentialed candidates. To unlock higher starting pay, such as in specialty roles involving cardiac MRI or advanced imaging with 3T and 7T scanners, credentials like ARRT registration in radiography (R) and ARRT(MR) post-primary certification are essential. For those entering this field, pursuing additional certifications such as MRSO or even ARMRIT can significantly enhance their qualifications and salary potential. Realistically, in the first three years, technologists can anticipate steady growth in their earnings as they acquire hands-on experience and expand their expertise in one of the fastest-growing subspecialties in radiologic technology.
More salary data for Savage, MN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Savage in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Savage?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Savage?
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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 Savage. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Savage 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