Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Collierville, TN: $56,864 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Collierville, TN job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $56,864 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Collierville's local price level (BEA RPP 91.8 — 8% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $61,943 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($81,138) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates pursuing a career in magnetic resonance imaging in Collierville, TN, the entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary is projected to start around $56,864 in 2026. This figure is notably under the city’s median salary of $81,138, creating a gap that new techs can gradually bridge as they gain experience. In the early years, it’s realistic for entry-level professionals to expect their earnings to rise towards $67,251 as they develop their competencies and secure additional responsibilities. Collierville offers a moderately favorable market for aspiring MRI technologists, with opportunities for advancement and a projected annual growth rate of 5.03% reflecting a demand for these specialized roles.
About the Collierville Market
Salary estimated from Tennessee average ($72,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Collierville
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 Collierville
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Collierville, TN typically start between $56,864 and $67,251 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $47,688 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $81,138 — 19.09% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Tennessee of $5,000 represents just 8.79% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($56,864/year) in Collierville. 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 Collierville
- 1Research the Collierville market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $56,864 to $67,251, 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 TN often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Collierville, 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 Collierville for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Collierville'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 Collierville is $47,688 ( 83.86%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $56,864, experienced hygienists can earn up to $104,552.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$40,199
2025 BLS Actual
$54,141
2026 Current Est.
$56,864
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Collierville (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $40,199 | Actual |
| 2020 | $41,559 | Actual |
| 2021 | $46,455 | Actual |
| 2022 | $47,571 | Actual |
| 2023 | $48,310 | Actual |
| 2024 | $47,393 | Actual |
| 2025 | $54,141 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $56,864 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $59,725 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Collierville, TN grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $40,199 in 2019 to $54,141 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $59,725. New graduates entering the Collierville job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Collierville 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 Collierville
Employers in Collierville often seek candidates who have obtained relevant credentials, which can significantly influence starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in TN. Facilities such as local hospitals sometimes prefer hiring experienced techs and are willing to cross-train individuals in MRI through internal initiatives. In contrast, outpatient MRI clinics may recruit pre-credentialed techs, occasionally offering sign-on bonuses to attract talent. For those entering the field, obtaining ARRT registration in radiography (R) and pursuing ARRT(MR) certification or the ARMRIT credential could enhance job prospects and pay potential. With 3T scanners becoming the norm in many healthcare settings, and the rising demand for specialized skills like cardiac MRI and mpMRI, strategies for early-career professionals should include focusing on these in-demand areas. As new MRI technologists navigate the first few years, a growth trajectory toward higher wages is both realistic and achievable through skill enhancement and securing roles in facilities that leverage advanced imaging technologies.
More salary data for Collierville, TN:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Collierville in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Collierville?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Collierville?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Collierville?
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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 Collierville. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Collierville 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