MRI Technologist Pay

Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Brookfield, WI: $67,105 (2026)

Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Brookfield, WI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $67,105 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Brookfield's local price level (BEA RPP 93.47% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $71,847 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($92,086) within a few years of clinical practice.

$67,105
Starting Salary
$32.27/hr
Starting Hourly
$67,105
Entry Level
$92,086
Career Median Target

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

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

In 2026, new graduates entering the magnetic resonance imaging field in Brookfield can expect an entry-level salary of approximately $67,105. Compared to the median annual salary of $92,086 for the city, this starting pay reflects the initial stages of a career in a specialty area known for higher compensation. Over the first few years, as new technologists gain experience and possibly additional certifications like ARRT(MR) or Cardiac MRI training, they could see their earnings increase toward the 25th percentile salary of $81,194. With a projected growth rate of 5.03% across five years in this profession, Brookfield presents a promising market for new grads aiming to establish themselves in the ever-expanding field of MRI technology.

About the Brookfield Market

Salary estimated from Wisconsin average ($80,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

Career Earnings Timeline in Brookfield

Year 0-2

New Graduate

$67,105/yr
Year 2-5

Early Career

$81,194/yr
Year 5-10

Mid Career

$92,086/yr
Year 10+

Experienced

$98,898/yr

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

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Brookfield

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Brookfield. The median salary is $92,086, compared to the national median of $100,283.$60.4K$75.6K$90.7K$105.9K$121.1K$67.1K10th Pctl$81.2K25th Pctl$92.1KMedian$98.9K75th Pctl$115.3K90th PctlUS Median$100.3K

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Brookfield, WI typically start between $67,105 and $81,194 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $48,210 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $92,0868.17% below the national median.

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

Return on Investment

$5,500
Avg WI Program Cost
$67,105
Starting Salary
8.20%
Cost-to-Salary Ratio
<1 yr
Payback Estimate

The average radiologic technology program cost in Wisconsin of $5,500 represents just 8.20% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($67,105/year) in Brookfield. 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 Brookfield

  • 1Research the Brookfield market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $67,105 to $81,194, 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 WI often pay a premium for expanded scope of work.
  • 3Evaluate the full compensation package — in Brookfield, 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 Brookfield for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
  • 5Brookfield'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 Brookfield is $48,210 ( 71.84%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $67,105, experienced hygienists can earn up to $115,315.

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

2019 BLS Actual

$47,438

2025 BLS Actual

$63,891

2026 Current Est.

$67,105

2019–2027 Growth

+48.6%

Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Brookfield (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 Brookfield. Baseline $47,438 in 2025, projected to $70,480 by 2027.$42.8K$50.9K$59.0K$67.0K$75.1K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$47.4K$49.0K$54.8K$56.1K$57.0K$54.6K$63.9K$67.1K$70.5K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$47,438Actual
2020$49,043Actual
2021$54,821Actual
2022$56,138Actual
2023$57,009Actual
2024$54,638Actual
2025$63,891Actual
2026(current)$67,105Estimated
2027$70,480Projected

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Brookfield, WI grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $47,438 in 2019 to $63,891 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $70,480. New graduates entering the Brookfield job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.

Note: Historical values (20192025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Brookfield 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 Brookfield

Employers in Brookfield typically prioritize experienced technologists, but there are opportunities for recent graduates, particularly in outpatient facilities that are actively recruiting pre-credentialed MRI techs and offering sign-on bonuses. Hospital systems may invest in training entry-level candidates by cross-training them from related radiology roles, allowing for a smooth transition into MRI positions. Gaining credentials such as ARRT registration in radiography (R) paired with ARRT(MR) post-primary certification or direct entry through ARMRIT can enhance starting pay in this competitive market. In the early years, technologists specializing in advanced techniques like cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI will likely experience faster growth, reflecting the increasing demand in Brookfield. Realistically, newcomers can anticipate salary advancements as their expertise and certifications expand, positioning themselves to take advantage of the robust salary potential in this specialty area.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Brookfield start at approximately $67,105/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 $32.26/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 Brookfield?

Most magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Brookfield progress from the entry-level salary of $67,105 to the area median of $92,086 within 3–5 years of clinical experience. Top earners with specializations and certifications reach $115,315 (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 Brookfield?

With a starting salary of $67,105/year in Brookfield 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 Brookfield?

New radiologic technology graduates in Brookfield typically start near the 10th percentile at $67,105/year, or approximately $32.26/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 Wisconsin?

To become a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin

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

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Brookfield 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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