Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Keizer, OR: $73,199 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Keizer, OR job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $73,199 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Keizer's local price level (BEA RPP 102.6 — 3% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $71,344 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($97,499) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, new graduates entering the magnetic resonance imaging profession in Keizer, Oregon, can expect a starting salary around $73,199. This figure is noticeably below the city's median annual salary of $97,499, creating a gap that may seem daunting at first glance. However, as early-career professionals accumulate experience, they may transition to higher pay tiers, moving from the 10th percentile to the 25th percentile salary range of $81,615 within just a few years. Given the area's projected growth rate of 5.03% for MRI roles, Keizer presents a viable job market for new grads, especially as demand for specialized imaging services continues to rise.
About the Keizer Market
Salary estimated from Oregon average ($102,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Keizer
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 Keizer
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Keizer, OR typically start between $73,199 and $81,615 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $51,421 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $97,499 — 2.78% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Oregon of $8,000 represents just 10.93% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($73,199/year) in Keizer. 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 Keizer
- 1Research the Keizer market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $73,199 to $81,615, 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 OR often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Keizer, 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 Keizer for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Keizer'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 Keizer is $51,421 ( 70.25%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $73,199, experienced hygienists can earn up to $124,620.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$51,746
2025 BLS Actual
$69,693
2026 Current Est.
$73,199
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Keizer (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $51,746 | Actual |
| 2020 | $53,496 | Actual |
| 2021 | $59,799 | Actual |
| 2022 | $61,236 | Actual |
| 2023 | $62,187 | Actual |
| 2024 | $75,945 | Actual |
| 2025 | $69,693 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $73,199 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $76,880 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Keizer, OR grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $51,746 in 2019 to $69,693 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $76,880. New graduates entering the Keizer job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Keizer 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 Keizer
When looking for employment opportunities in Keizer, it's essential for new graduates to recognize that local healthcare systems typically prefer hiring experienced technologists. Many hospitals may opt to cross-train existing radiologic technologists into MRI roles, while outpatient MRI facilities often seek candidates who have already obtained their ARRT(R)(MR) credentials or those qualified through ARMRIT. Competitive sign-on bonuses might be available for pre-credentialed MRI techs, which enhances the appeal for those entering the field. Career growth in this specialty can be significant, particularly as advancements lead to a greater reliance on 3T and 7T MRI technology, along with a rising need for specialized cardiac and prostate mpMRI skills. For recent entrants, salary growth during the first few years is promising, with the potential to quickly elevate earnings through continued education and skill mastery.
More salary data for Keizer, OR:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Keizer in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Keizer?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Keizer?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Keizer?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Oregon?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in Oregon
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 Keizer. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Keizer 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