Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Bismarck, ND: $68,856 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Bismarck, ND job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $68,856 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Bismarck's local price level (BEA RPP 92.0 — 8% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $74,843 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($90,939) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Bismarck, North Dakota, the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary for fresh graduates in 2026 is projected around $68,856. This figure represents the entry-level threshold and significantly trails the city’s median salary of $90,939. For new grads, expectations should be realistic; while the entry-level salary may seem modest compared to the median, early-career professionals can anticipate a growth trajectory over the first few years. As experience builds, salaries should rise toward the $79,006 threshold for the 25th percentile and potentially reach the median as technologists develop their skills and gain on-the-job experience. Given the rising demand for healthcare services in Bismarck, particularly in imaging, there’s potential for new graduates to find good opportunities in the marketplace.
About the Bismarck Market
Salary estimated from North Dakota average ($78,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Bismarck
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 Bismarck
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Bismarck, ND typically start between $68,856 and $79,006 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $48,311 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $90,939 — 9.32% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in North Dakota of $4,500 represents just 6.54% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($68,856/year) in Bismarck. 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 Bismarck
- 1Research the Bismarck market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $68,856 to $79,006, 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 ND often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Bismarck, 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 Bismarck for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Bismarck'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 Bismarck is $48,311 ( 70.16%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $68,856, experienced hygienists can earn up to $117,167.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$48,676
2025 BLS Actual
$65,558
2026 Current Est.
$68,856
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Bismarck (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $48,676 | Actual |
| 2020 | $50,322 | Actual |
| 2021 | $56,251 | Actual |
| 2022 | $57,602 | Actual |
| 2023 | $58,497 | Actual |
| 2024 | $54,589 | Actual |
| 2025 | $65,558 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $68,856 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $72,319 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Bismarck, ND grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $48,676 in 2019 to $65,558 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $72,319. New graduates entering the Bismarck job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Bismarck 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 Bismarck
Hiring patterns in Bismarck reveal that hospitals typically prefer experienced radiologic technologists for MRI roles and may consider entry-level candidates through in-house cross-training programs. Outpatient MRI facilities often seek pre-credentialed MRI technologists, sometimes offering sign-on bonuses to attract talent. New graduates should consider obtaining dual credentials—ARRT registration in radiography and ARRT(MR) certification—as these can enhance employability and starting pay. Entering the field with such credentials can set the stage for upward mobility within the profession. The focus on sub-specialties like cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI makes this an even more strategic time for growth in Bismarck. With MRI technologist salaries among the highest in radiologic technology, individuals can expect gradual increases in pay during their early years. Realistically, in an evolving market, many will find it possible to move closer to $90,939 within their first three years, aided by new advancements in technology and techniques.
More salary data for Bismarck, ND:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Bismarck in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Bismarck?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Bismarck?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Bismarck?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in North Dakota?
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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 Bismarck. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Bismarck 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