MRI Technologist Pay

Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Mount Pleasant, WI: $63,763 (2026)

Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Mount Pleasant, WI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $63,763 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Mount Pleasant's local price level (BEA RPP 93.47% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $68,269 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($90,720) within a few years of clinical practice.

$63,763
Starting Salary
$30.66/hr
Starting Hourly
$63,763
Entry Level
$90,720
Career Median Target

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

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

In 2026, the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin is projected at around $63,763 per year. This figure represents the lower tenth percentile for entry-level roles and reveals a considerable gap compared to the city's median pay of $90,720. For new graduates entering the field, this initial salary reflects the typical challenges faced at the onset of their careers. However, there are promising growth opportunities, as early-career professionals can expect their earnings to climb steadily to roughly $80,344 within several years, with a clear pathway toward reaching the median salary. Overall, the salary prospects for entry-level MRI technologists make Mount Pleasant a competitive market for new graduates.

About the Mount Pleasant Market

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

Career Earnings Timeline in Mount Pleasant

Year 0-2

New Graduate

$63,763/yr
Year 2-5

Early Career

$80,344/yr
Year 5-10

Mid Career

$90,720/yr
Year 10+

Experienced

$97,843/yr

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

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Mount Pleasant

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Mount Pleasant. The median salary is $90,720, compared to the national median of $100,283.$57.4K$72.9K$88.5K$104.1K$119.6K$63.8K10th Pctl$80.3K25th Pctl$90.7KMedian$97.8K75th Pctl$113.9K90th PctlUS Median$100.3K

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Mount Pleasant, WI typically start between $63,763 and $80,344 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $50,179 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $90,7209.54% below the national median.

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

Return on Investment

$5,500
Avg WI Program Cost
$63,763
Starting Salary
8.63%
Cost-to-Salary Ratio
<1 yr
Payback Estimate

The average radiologic technology program cost in Wisconsin of $5,500 represents just 8.63% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($63,763/year) in Mount Pleasant. 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 Mount Pleasant

  • 1Research the Mount Pleasant market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $63,763 to $80,344, 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 Mount Pleasant, 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 Mount Pleasant for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
  • 5Mount Pleasant'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 Mount Pleasant is $50,179 ( 78.70%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $63,763, experienced hygienists can earn up to $113,942.

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

2019 BLS Actual

$45,076

2025 BLS Actual

$60,709

2026 Current Est.

$63,763

2019–2027 Growth

+48.6%

Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Mount Pleasant (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 Mount Pleasant. Baseline $45,076 in 2025, projected to $66,970 by 2027.$40.7K$48.4K$56.0K$63.7K$71.3K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$45.1K$46.6K$52.1K$53.3K$54.2K$52.0K$60.7K$63.8K$67.0K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$45,076Actual
2020$46,600Actual
2021$52,090Actual
2022$53,342Actual
2023$54,170Actual
2024$51,955Actual
2025$60,709Actual
2026(current)$63,763Estimated
2027$66,970Projected

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Mount Pleasant, WI grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $45,076 in 2019 to $60,709 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $66,970. New graduates entering the Mount Pleasant job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.

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

Looking at the employment landscape, various health organizations in Mount Pleasant, such as local hospitals and outpatient imaging centers, actively recruit entry-level candidates, though hiring preferences may vary. Hospital systems tend to favor experienced radiologic technologists who can transition to MRI, investing in their training for in-house needs. In contrast, outpatient MRI facilities often seek pre-credentialed technicians and might offer signing bonuses for competitive entry-level positions. Pursuing ARRT registration in radiography (R) along with post-primary certification in MRI (ARRT MR) significantly enhances earning potential and job readiness in the marketplace. Given that the demand for specialty areas like cardiac and prostate multi-parametric MRI is surging, new grads are advised to align themselves with these subspecialties early on. Strategically, newly minted technologists can anticipate a gradual salary increase, potentially reaching the upper quartile of approximately $97,843 within a few years, especially if they gain relevant certifications like the MR safety officer (MRSO) and actively seek to expand their skills in advanced imaging techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Mount Pleasant start at approximately $63,763/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 $30.66/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 Mount Pleasant?

Most magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Mount Pleasant progress from the entry-level salary of $63,763 to the area median of $90,720 within 3–5 years of clinical experience. Top earners with specializations and certifications reach $113,942 (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 Mount Pleasant?

With a starting salary of $63,763/year in Mount Pleasant 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 Mount Pleasant?

New radiologic technology graduates in Mount Pleasant typically start near the 10th percentile at $63,763/year, or approximately $30.66/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 Mount Pleasant. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.

Data Sources & Methodology

Salary data for Mount Pleasant 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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