Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in South Burlington, VT: $59,877 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the South Burlington, VT job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $59,877 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out South Burlington's local price level (BEA RPP 103.5 — 4% above national), a first-year paycheck buys what $57,852 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($81,666) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates targeting entry-level positions as magnetic resonance imaging technologists in South Burlington, it’s important to set realistic salary expectations. The starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in South Burlington is projected to be approximately $59,877 for 2026, which is notably below the city’s median annual salary of $81,666. However, entry-level professionals can anticipate a growth trajectory in their earnings, potentially moving to $69,079 within the first few years as they gain experience. While this starting salary may seem modest compared to the median, the evolving healthcare market in South Burlington indicates a strong demand for MRI technologists, making it a favorable environment for new graduates.
About the South Burlington Market
Salary estimated from Vermont average ($82,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in South Burlington
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 South Burlington
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in South Burlington, VT typically start between $59,877 and $69,079 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $45,601 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $81,666 — 18.56% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Vermont of $9,000 represents just 15.03% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($59,877/year) in South Burlington. 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 South Burlington
- 1Research the South Burlington market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $59,877 to $69,079, 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 VT often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
- 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in South Burlington, 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 South Burlington for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5South Burlington'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 South Burlington is $45,601 ( 76.16%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $59,877, experienced hygienists can earn up to $105,478.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$42,328
2025 BLS Actual
$57,009
2026 Current Est.
$59,877
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in South Burlington (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $42,328 | Actual |
| 2020 | $43,760 | Actual |
| 2021 | $48,916 | Actual |
| 2022 | $50,091 | Actual |
| 2023 | $50,869 | Actual |
| 2024 | $60,034 | Actual |
| 2025 | $57,009 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $59,877 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $62,888 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in South Burlington, VT grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $42,328 in 2019 to $57,009 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $62,888. New graduates entering the South Burlington job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the South Burlington 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 South Burlington
Employers in South Burlington primarily consist of hospital systems and outpatient MRI facilities. Hospitals tend to prefer experienced technologists, offering in-house training for cross-training in MRI, whereas outpatient chains may actively recruit pre-credentialed MRI techs, even offering sign-on bonuses. For new grads, earning ARRT registration in radiography (R) followed by ARRT(MR) certification can enhance one’s qualifications and starting pay. Seeking out specialty training in high-demand areas such as cardiac MRI can be advantageous, as these roles are emerging rapidly in academic medical centers and research sites, which typically offer higher salaries. With a strategic approach to continuous education and skill enhancement, new professionals can expect tangible salary growth within their first few years of employment in South Burlington, where the 5.03% annual growth rate brings promising opportunities.
More salary data for South Burlington, VT:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in South Burlington in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in South Burlington?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in South Burlington?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in South Burlington?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Vermont?
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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 South Burlington. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for South Burlington 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