Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Billings, MT: $83,709 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Billings, MT job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $83,709 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Billings's local price level (BEA RPP 93.5 — 6% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $89,503 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($88,236) within a few years of clinical practice.
Official BLS data · View source
In Billings, Montana, those embarking on a career as an entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist can look forward to a starting salary of approximately $83,709 in 2026. While this figure is lower than the city median salary of $88,236, it still offers promising growth potential as new graduates gain experience and skills. Over the first three to five years, those in the field can expect to see their remuneration progress towards the median, providing an encouraging trajectory for early-career professionals. Given Billings' current demand for MRI technologists, it represents a viable market for new graduates to initiate their careers while building crucial expertise in this growing specialty.
Career Earnings Timeline in Billings
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 Billings
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Billings, MT typically start between $83,709 and $83,709 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $22,140 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $88,236 — 12.01% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Montana of $5,000 represents just 5.97% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($83,709/year) in Billings. 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 Billings
- 1Research the Billings market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $83,709 to $83,709, 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 MT often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Billings, 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 Billings for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Billings's below-average 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 Billings is $22,140 ( 26.45%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $83,709, experienced hygienists can earn up to $105,849.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$56,850
2025 BLS Actual
$79,700
2026 Current Est.
$83,709
2019–2027 Growth
+54.7%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Billings (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $56,850 | Actual |
| 2020 | $57,220 | Actual |
| 2021 | $62,390 | Actual |
| 2022 | $70,028 | Actual |
| 2023 | $71,116 | Actual |
| 2024 | $69,570 | Actual |
| 2025 | $79,700 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $83,709 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $87,919 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Billings, MT grew 40.2% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $56,850 in 2019 to $79,700 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $87,919. New graduates entering the Billings job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Billings 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 Billings
For new graduates in Billings, opportunities to secure employment are typically found within major hospital systems, outpatient facilities, or specialty clinics. Hospital systems may focus on hiring experienced radiant technologists, offering cross-training into MRI, thereby fostering in-house talent. Meanwhile, outpatient MRI chains actively recruit pre-credentialed MRI technologists, often providing attractive sign-on bonuses. It is essential for newcomers to consider further credentials such as ARRT registration in radiography and ARRT(MR) certification, which can lead to competitive starting pay in Montana. Acquiring the MRSO certification and engaging in ongoing education in high-demand subspecialties like cardiac MRI or prostate mpMRI can significantly enhance career growth within the first few years. With MRI technology rankings among the highest in radiologic fields, early-career professionals can anticipate steady salary increases as they refine their skills, especially considering the evolving landscape of MRI technology advancements at research sites.
More salary data for Billings, MT:
Frequently Asked Questions
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How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Billings?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Billings?
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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 Billings. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS, 5-year dataset (–). Per-city data from annual BLS metropolitan area surveys.
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