Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Petaluma, CA: $60.94 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Petaluma, CA runs $60.94 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $126,754 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Petaluma's regional price level (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national), each hour of work buys what $53.88 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $76,051 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Petaluma, California, the projected median hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist is $60.94. This figure is notably higher than the national median of $48.21, highlighting both the competitive nature of the local healthcare market and the high demand for specialized imaging professionals. For those working part-time, scheduling three days a week typically results in a solid income while allowing for a flexible work-life balance. Per-diem opportunities in places like hospital MRI suites, outpatient imaging centers, and mobile MRI trailers can also be lucrative, with entry-level positions earning around $45.70 per hour and experienced technologists making as much as $81.94 per hour, depending on the facility and specific demands of the job.
About the Petaluma 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) | $45.70 | $365.59 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $52.57 | $420.54 |
| Median (P50) | $60.94 | $487.51 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $68.42 | $547.33 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $81.94 | $655.56 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Petaluma
Based on $60.94/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $60.94/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Petaluma, CA can expect to earn approximately $126,752 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $73,126. With a cost-of-living index of 113.10 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Petaluma.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Petaluma
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $2,437.54 | $10,563 | $126,752 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,462.52 | $6,338 | $76,051 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $975.01 | $4,225 | $50,701 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Petaluma) | $60.94 |
| 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 Petaluma, CA earn a median of $126,754 per year (2026 est.), which is 26.40% higher than the national median of $100,283 and 1.90% below the California state average of $129,209.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $60.94/hr = $76,051/year (purchasing power: $67,242).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $126,752/year (purchasing power: $112,071).
CoL index: 113.1 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$44.61/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$58.02/hr
2026 Current Est.
$60.94/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Petaluma (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $44.61/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $45.39/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $47.01/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $48.67/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $50.89/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $62.91/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $58.02/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $60.94/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $64.00/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Petaluma grew 30.1% from $44.61/hr (2019) to $58.02/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $64.00/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 Petaluma 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 Petaluma
Earning potential varies significantly among magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Petaluma, especially for those considering part-time or per-diem work. A technologist working three days a week for 24 hours could bring home around $78,492 annually, a solid income compared to full-time opportunities. Per diem rates can fluctuate based on location and specialty, with typical billing ranging from $55 to $85 per hour; cardiac MRI specialists may command even higher, between $75 and $110 per hour. Additionally, contracts through travel agencies can yield weekly earnings of $2,200 to $3,400, making this pathway attractive for those seeking higher compensation. However, some may opt for lower hourly wages in exchange for benefits like health insurance and retirement plans. For those negotiating their hourly pay, it is wise to consider employer types, as hospitals generally offer stability while outpatient centers may provide greater flexibility and higher rates. Understanding the local job market dynamics is crucial for technologists aiming to maximize their earnings in Petaluma, CA.
More salary data for Petaluma, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Petaluma in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Petaluma?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Petaluma paid hourly or salary?
How much does a full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist make per year in Petaluma?
Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Petaluma?
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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 Petaluma. 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 Petaluma 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