Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Hayward, CA: $62.97 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Hayward, CA runs $62.97 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $130,966 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Hayward's regional price level (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national), each hour of work buys what $55.67 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $78,581 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Hayward, California, the magnetic resonance imaging technologist hourly pay averages $62.97, significantly exceeding the national median of $48.21. This elevated rate presents attractive opportunities for part-time and per-diem workers, particularly in hospital MRI suites, outpatient centers, and mobile MRI trailers. For those working just three days a week, this hourly pay translates to a robust income, allowing a comfortable lifestyle within the area's cost of living index, which stands at 113.1. Entry-level technologists can expect to earn approximately $42.54 per hour while seasoned professionals may reach rates as high as $87.83 per hour. With such varied compensation, MRI technologists in Hayward are well-positioned for a rewarding career in this high-demand specialty.
About the Hayward Market
Salary estimated from California average ($118,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $42.54 | $340.30 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $54.72 | $437.77 |
| Median (P50) | $62.97 | $503.72 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $72.41 | $579.26 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $87.83 | $702.61 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Hayward
Based on $62.97/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $62.97/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Hayward, CA can expect to earn approximately $130,968 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $75,559. With a cost-of-living index of 113.10 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Hayward.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Hayward
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $2,518.62 | $10,914 | $130,968 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,511.17 | $6,548 | $78,581 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $1,007.45 | $4,366 | $52,387 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Hayward) | $62.97 |
| Radiologic Technologist (National Avg) | $35.27 |
| Nuclear Medicine Technologist (National Avg) | $46.68 |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer (National Avg) | $42.41 |
| Radiation Therapist (National Avg) | $48.35 |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Hayward, CA earn a median of $130,966 per year (2026 est.), which is 30.60% higher than the national median of $100,283 and 1.30% above the California state average of $129,285.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $62.97/hr = $78,581/year (purchasing power: $69,479).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $130,968/year (purchasing power: $115,799).
CoL index: 113.1 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$46.09/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$59.95/hr
2026 Current Est.
$62.97/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Hayward (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $46.09/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $46.90/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $48.57/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $50.29/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $52.58/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $65.00/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $59.95/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $62.97/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $66.13/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Hayward grew 30.1% from $46.09/hr (2019) to $59.95/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $66.13/hr by 2027. Part-time and per-diem magnetic resonance imaging technologists can use this multi-year trend to benchmark future contract negotiations.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Hayward 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.
Working as an Hourly Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist in Hayward
Considering the dynamics of part-time roles, an MRI technologist working 24 hours a week at the local rate can earn a commendable annual income, well above many other professions. In addition to full-time positions, per diem magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in Hayward can vary widely, with techs billing between $55 and $85 per hour, depending on demand and specialization, such as cardiac MRI work which commands $75 to $110 per hour. Travel contracts further diversify earning opportunities, presenting rates from $2,200 to $3,400 weekly. Employment settings also play a significant role in compensation; hospital imaging departments typically offer benefits at a lower hourly rate compared to freestanding outpatient MRI centers, which might provide higher pay but lack health insurance. Negotiating terms based on individual needs and career goals is essential; techs should weigh the benefits of stable employment against the potentially higher earnings available in more flexible roles in Hayward or through agencies.
More salary data for Hayward, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Hayward in 2026?
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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
Hourly wage figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. A 5.03% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), derived from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to estimate current 2026 hourly rates for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Hayward. Part-time and full-time income estimates assume consistent weekly hours and do not account for overtime, benefits, or seasonal variation.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Hayward 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