Entry-Level Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Wausau, WI: $64,296 (2026)
Quick Answer:New magnetic resonance imaging technologists entering the Wausau, WI job market in 2026 can expect a starting salary around $64,296 (BLS 10th-percentile benchmark for SOC 29-2035, projected from 2025 OEWS data). Stripping out Wausau's local price level (BEA RPP 93.4 — 7% below national), a first-year paycheck buys what $68,839 would in average-cost America. Most reach the city median ($91,068) within a few years of clinical practice.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
For new graduates entering the field of magnetic resonance imaging in Wausau, Wisconsin, the starting salary in 2026 projects to be around $64,296. This amount represents the lower range of entry-level pay, significantly below the city’s median of $91,068. However, the potential for growth exists, as early career MRI technologists can expect to increase their earnings over the first three to five years, moving toward the 25th percentile salary of $81,078 and potentially reaching closer to the median. Wausau's healthcare market is currently favorable for new graduates, particularly with the demand for MRI technicians rising, suggesting that recent entrants can strategically position themselves for growth in a competitive environment.
About the Wausau Market
Salary estimated from Wisconsin average ($80,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Career Earnings Timeline in Wausau
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 Wausau
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Wausau, WI typically start between $64,296 and $81,078 per year (2026 est.). The full salary range spans $56,599 from the 10th to 90th percentile, with the local median at $91,068 — 9.19% below the national median.
Return on Investment
The average radiologic technology program cost in Wisconsin of $5,500 represents just 8.55% of the starting magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ($64,296/year) in Wausau. 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 Wausau
- 1Research the Wausau market: entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay ranges from $64,296 to $81,078, 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 Wausau, 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 Wausau for competitive entry-level pay and structured mentorship, then move to a smaller employer once you have 2-3 years of experience.
- 5Wausau'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 Wausau is $56,599 ( 88.03%) between entry-level and top earners. Starting at $64,296, experienced hygienists can earn up to $120,895.
Represents the current salary spread across experience levels, not projected career growth rate.
2019 BLS Actual
$45,453
2025 BLS Actual
$61,217
2026 Current Est.
$64,296
2019–2027 Growth
+48.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Wausau (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $45,453 | Actual |
| 2020 | $46,990 | Actual |
| 2021 | $52,526 | Actual |
| 2022 | $53,788 | Actual |
| 2023 | $54,623 | Actual |
| 2024 | $52,385 | Actual |
| 2025 | $61,217 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $64,296 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $67,530 | Projected |
Entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation (10th percentile) in Wausau, WI grew 34.7% over 7 years based on actual BLS metropolitan area surveys, rising from $45,453 in 2019 to $61,217 in 2025. By 2027, starting salaries are projected to reach $67,530. New graduates entering the Wausau job market can expect continued year-over-year gains.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Wausau 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 Wausau
In Wausau, healthcare facilities such as Aspirus Health and Marshfield Clinic often hire new graduates, although they may prefer candidates with specific credentials. Employers may prioritize those who have obtained ARRT registration in radiography (R) and post-primary certification in MR (ARRT(MR)), or even those with direct entry through the ARMRIT credential. While entry-level roles could start lower, aspiring technologists in their first few years can boost their salaries by pursuing advanced certifications and licenses, such as becoming a Magnetic Resonance Safety Officer (MRSO). MRI technology salaries are among the highest in radiologic fields due to the specialty's increasing demand, especially with developments in cardiac MRI and prostate mpMRI, which are notable growth areas. By staying current with industry trends and actively pursuing continuing education opportunities, new grad magnetic resonance imaging technologists in WI can realistically expect to advance their earnings notably within their initial years.
More salary data for Wausau, WI:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the starting salary for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Wausau in 2026?
How fast do magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries grow in Wausau?
Is radiologic technology school worth it in Wausau?
What do new magnetic resonance imaging technologists make right out of school in Wausau?
How do I become a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Wisconsin?
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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 Wausau. Program costs are averages and actual tuition varies by institution. ROI calculations are simplified estimates.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Wausau 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