Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Milpitas, CA: $60.32 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Milpitas, CA runs $60.32 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $125,454 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Milpitas's regional price level (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national), each hour of work buys what $53.33 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $75,278 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Milpitas, California, will command a median hourly pay of $60.32, significantly higher than the national hourly median of $48.21. This premium wage reflects the high demand for these specialists across various environments, including hospital MRI suites, outpatient imaging centers, and mobile MRI units. For those pursuing part-time work, typically around three days per week, or even per-diem positions, the earning potential is robust, with rates ranging from $44.25 for entry-level positions to as much as $81.92 for top earners in the profession. These hourly earnings provide a strong incentive for professionals transitioning into this field or seeking flexible work arrangements, particularly in Milpitas, where the cost of living index stands at 113.1.
About the Milpitas 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) | $44.25 | $353.99 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $51.29 | $410.29 |
| Median (P50) | $60.32 | $482.55 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $68.40 | $547.16 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $81.92 | $655.39 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Milpitas
Based on $60.32/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $60.32/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Milpitas, CA can expect to earn approximately $125,463 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $72,382. With a cost-of-living index of 113.10 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Milpitas.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Milpitas
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $2,412.75 | $10,455 | $125,463 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,447.65 | $6,273 | $75,278 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $965.10 | $4,182 | $50,185 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Milpitas) | $60.32 |
| 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 Milpitas, CA earn a median of $125,454 per year (2026 est.), which is 25.10% higher than the national median of $100,283 and 3.00% below the California state average of $129,334.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $60.32/hr = $75,278/year (purchasing power: $66,559).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $125,463/year (purchasing power: $110,931).
CoL index: 113.1 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$44.16/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$57.43/hr
2026 Current Est.
$60.32/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Milpitas (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $44.16/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $44.93/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $46.53/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $48.17/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $50.37/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $62.27/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $57.43/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $60.32/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $63.35/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Milpitas grew 30.1% from $44.16/hr (2019) to $57.43/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $63.35/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 Milpitas 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 Milpitas
Considering a part-time schedule of 24 hours per week, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist would earn roughly $75,000 annually, starkly contrasting with full-time earnings in this specialty. In the per-diem landscape, professionals can bill between $55 and $85 per hour, while cardiac MRI expertise can lead to rates of $75 to $110. Travel contracts offer even higher payouts, often ranging from $2,200 to $3,400 weekly, creating opportunities for techs to maximize their income through locum tenens work. Hourly pay can vary significantly depending on the employer type, whether in major hospital imaging departments or smaller outpatient centers like RadNet and SimonMed. While some technologists might choose lower hourly rates for job security and benefits, negotiating for higher pay without benefits is an option many consider. Understanding the local market, especially in Milpitas, is key for aspiring and current MRI techs navigating their compensation discussions effectively.
More salary data for Milpitas, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Milpitas in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Milpitas?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Milpitas paid hourly or salary?
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Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Milpitas?
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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 Milpitas. 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 Milpitas 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