MRI Technologist Pay

Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Riverton, UT: $67,112 (2026)

Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Riverton, UT job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $67,112 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Riverton's local price level (BEA RPP 98.12% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $68,412 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($93,193) within a few years of clinical practice.

$67,112
Starting Salary
$32.27/hr
Starting Hourly
$67,112
Entry Level
$93,193
Career Median Target

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Entry Level Salary in Riverton, UT — 2026 est., based on 2025 BLS
Riverton, UT magnetic resonance imaging technologist entry level salary overview (2026 est., based on 2025 BLS)

For new graduates entering the field of magnetic resonance imaging in Riverton, Utah, the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary is projected at about $67,112 in 2026. This figure suggests a significant gap from the city’s median annual salary of $93,193, which indicates that entry-level salaries may be on the lower end of the spectrum. However, as retention and demand for skilled professionals in this specialty rise, early-career technologists can expect gradual income growth as they gain experience. Over the first three to five years, salaries could reasonably rise as professionals transition from the P10 level to P25, ultimately approaching the city’s median with diligence and skill development. Given the market dynamics of Riverton, this position is promising for new graduates keen on starting their careers in medical imaging.

About the Riverton Market

Salary estimated from Utah average ($78,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

Career Earnings Timeline in Riverton

Year 0-2

New Graduate

$67,112/yr
Year 2-5

Early Career

$77,974/yr
Year 5-10

Mid Career

$93,193/yr
Year 10+

Experienced

$101,524/yr

Salary progression estimated from BLS percentile data. Actual progression varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Riverton

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton. The median salary is $93,193, compared to the national median of $100,283.$60.4K$76.6K$92.7K$108.9K$125.0K$67.1K10th Pctl$78.0K25th Pctl$93.2KMedian$101.5K75th Pctl$119.1K90th PctlUS Median$100.3K

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton, UT typically start between $67,112 and $77,974 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $51,947 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $93,1937.07% below the national median.

Source: BLS OEWS projected to 2026. Percentiles reflect the distribution of magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in the Riverton metro area.

Return on Investment

$5,500
Avg UT Program Cost
$67,112
Starting Salary
8.20%
Cost-to-Salary Ratio
<1 yr
Payback Estimate

The average radiologic technology program cost in Utah of $5,500 represents just 8.20% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($67,112/year) in Riverton. 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 Riverton

  • 1Research the Riverton market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $67,112 to $77,974, 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 UT often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
  • 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Riverton, 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 Riverton for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
  • 5Riverton'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 Riverton is $51,947 ( 77.40%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $67,112, experienced hygienists can earn up to $119,059.

Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.

2019 BLS Actual

$47,443

2025 BLS Actual

$63,898

2026 Current Est.

$67,112

2019–2027 Growth

+48.6%

Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Riverton (20192027)

2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.

BLS Actual Estimated Projected
Salary trajectory chart for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton. Baseline $47,443 in 2025, projected to $70,488 by 2027.$42.8K$50.9K$59.0K$67.0K$75.1K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$47.4K$49.0K$54.8K$56.1K$57.0K$53.3K$63.9K$67.1K$70.5K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$47,443Actual
2020$49,048Actual
2021$54,827Actual
2022$56,144Actual
2023$57,016Actual
2024$53,291Actual
2025$63,898Actual
2026(current)$67,112Estimated
2027$70,488Projected

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Riverton, UT grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $47,443 in 2019 to $63,898 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $70,488. New graduates entering the Riverton job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.

Note: Historical values (20192025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Riverton metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 20262026 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 Riverton

In Riverton, various healthcare providers actively recruit new graduates. While many hospital systems prefer experienced technologists and might cross-train employees in-house, outpatient MRI clinics are often more accessible for recent graduates, sometimes offering attractive sign-on bonuses. Candidates with the ARRT registration in radiography (R) alongside ARRT(MR) post-primary certification or the direct entry through ARMRIT credential have a competitive edge in securing positions. For those focusing on career strategy, aligning with the growth in subspecialties like cardiac MRI and mpMRI can prove beneficial, as these areas are seeing substantial interests and can offer higher wages. Early-career growth expectations suggest that salaries may gradually climb as individuals accumulate experience, positioning themselves within this lucrative industry where compensation generally trends among the highest in radiologic technology. Looking ahead, Riverton presents a solid market for newly minted MRI technologists, primarily due to regional demand and the ongoing advancements in imaging technology.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton in 2026?

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton start at approximately $67,112/year (10th percentile), based on estimated 2026 salary (projected from 2025 BLS data at 5.03% annual growth). This is the typical range for new graduates with less than 1 year of clinical experience. The starting hourly equivalent is approximately $32.27/hour for full-time work. Starting pay depends on the practice type (private vs. large organization), patient volume, location within the metro area, and whether the position includes benefits.

How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Riverton?

Most magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Riverton progress from the entry-level salary of $67,112 to the area median of $93,193 within 3–5 years of clinical experience. Top earners with specializations and certifications reach $119,059 (90th percentile). The biggest salary jumps typically come in years 2–5 as clinical skills develop, and again when obtaining advanced certifications or expanded-function credentials. Salary growth after 10 years tends to plateau unless moving into management or education roles.

Is radiologic technology school worth it in Riverton?

With a starting salary of $67,112/year in Riverton and typical program costs ranging from $20,000–$80,000 for the required degree, graduates can expect a strong return on investment. Most new magnetic resonance imaging technologists recoup their tuition within 1–3 years of working full-time. The profession also offers excellent work-life balance, flexible scheduling, low unemployment rates, and growing demand driven by an aging population's care needs.

What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Riverton?

New radiologic technology graduates in Riverton typically start near the 10th percentile at $67,112/year, or approximately $32.27/hour. Starting pay varies based on the practice type, patient volume, geographic location within the metro area, and whether the compensation package includes benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions. Graduates with internships at high-production practices often secure higher starting offers.

How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Utah?

To become a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Utah, you typically need an associate's degree in radiologic technology or a related field is typically required., then pass the required national and state licensing examinations. Most states, including Utah, also require a clinical licensing exam. After obtaining licensure, you must maintain it through continuing education credits. Some magnetic resonance imaging technologists pursue advanced degrees for career advancement into education, research, or public health roles.

Related Pages

Nearby Cities in Utah

CT

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.

Clinically reviewed by Jamal Patel, R.T. (R)(MR)Data verified by Li Chen, MS, R.T. (R)(MR)

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 Riverton. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Riverton is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).

View estimation methodology

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

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