Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Torrance, CA: $63.22 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Torrance, CA runs $63.22 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $131,488 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Torrance's regional price level (BEA RPP 113.1, 13% above national), each hour of work buys what $55.90 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $78,896 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Torrance, California, the hourly compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists is quite competitive, with a median hourly rate of $63.22. This figure stands in stark contrast to the national hourly median of $48.21, reflecting the heightened demand and specialized skills required in this field. For those working part-time, such as on a 3-day workweek, or in per-diem roles, this pay structure translates into lucrative earning potential as MRI technologists operate in various settings, including hospital MRI suites, outpatient imaging centers, and mobile MRI trailers. The hourly pay range for this profession spans from $42.92 at the lower end to $88.86 for top earners, allowing for flexibility in income based on experience and work demand, and it’s essential to appreciate that these hourly rates are derived from projected annual salary data for the year 2026.
About the Torrance 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) | $42.92 | $343.32 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $51.49 | $411.89 |
| Median (P50) | $63.22 | $505.74 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $72.95 | $583.63 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $88.86 | $710.84 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Torrance
Based on $63.22/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $63.22/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Torrance, CA can expect to earn approximately $131,493 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $75,861. With a cost-of-living index of 113.10 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Torrance.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Torrance
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $2,528.70 | $10,958 | $131,493 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,517.22 | $6,575 | $78,896 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $1,011.48 | $4,383 | $52,597 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Torrance) | $63.22 |
| 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 Torrance, CA earn a median of $131,488 per year (2026 est.), which is 31.12% higher than the national median of $100,283 and 1.70% above the California state average of $129,290.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $63.22/hr = $78,896/year (purchasing power: $69,757).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $131,493/year (purchasing power: $116,262).
CoL index: 113.1 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$46.28/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$60.19/hr
2026 Current Est.
$63.22/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Torrance (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $46.28/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $47.08/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $48.77/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $50.49/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $52.79/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $65.26/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $60.19/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $63.22/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $66.40/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Torrance grew 30.1% from $46.28/hr (2019) to $60.19/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $66.40/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 Torrance 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 Torrance
When it comes to actual annual earnings, those working part-time (24 hours weekly) can bring home about $78,475, significantly less than their full-time counterparts, but still a respectable income considering the shorter schedule. For many in this field, per-diem roles offer a notable difference in pay; these positions typically pay between $55 to $85 per hour, with specialized cardiac MRI technologists earning even more, with rates ranging from $75 to $110 per hour. Travel contracts can yield even higher weekly compensation, hitting between $2,200 and $3,400, especially appealing for those willing to take on temporary assignments. In Torrance, the type of employer plays a crucial role in determining pay rates, with hospitals generally offering higher salaries compared to outpatient centers or mobile units. As a result, some technologists may opt for the stability and benefits of hospital jobs, even if they mean slightly lower hourly rates compared to agency work, where hourly wages do not come with health benefits. For those negotiating pay, it’s wise to highlight specialized skills or certifications, particularly in high-demand areas such as cardiac MRI or mpMRI, which can significantly influence hiring decisions and salary expectations in a city with diverse imaging opportunities.
More salary data for Torrance, CA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Torrance in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Torrance?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Torrance paid hourly or salary?
How much does a full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist make per year in Torrance?
Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Torrance?
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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 Torrance. 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 Torrance 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