Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Clemson, SC: $40.63 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Clemson, SC runs $40.63 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $84,497 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Clemson's regional price level (BEA RPP 91.5, 8% below national), each hour of work buys what $44.40 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $50,701 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In 2026, magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Clemson, South Carolina, earn a median hourly pay of $40.63, which is notably lower than the national median hourly rate of $48.21. This discrepancy means that part-time MRI technologists working three days a week can expect to earn around $1,060 weekly, or approximately $55,120 annually, without the stability and benefits full-time roles may offer. For per-diem technicians, the expected earnings will vary depending on demand and specialty, particularly in high-demand environments such as hospital MRI suites and outpatient imaging centers. The hourly pay for entry-level positions starts at around $31.49, while proficient technologists can earn up to $51.92, demonstrating a significant range that reflects both experience and expertise in the field.
About the Clemson Market
Salary estimated from South Carolina average ($72,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $31.49 | $251.90 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $35.59 | $284.76 |
| Median (P50) | $40.63 | $325.00 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $44.57 | $356.60 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $51.92 | $415.33 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Clemson
Based on $40.63/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $40.63/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Clemson, SC can expect to earn approximately $84,501 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $48,751. With a cost-of-living index of 91.50 (below the national average), these earnings stretch further in Clemson.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Clemson
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $1,625.02 | $7,042 | $84,501 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $975.01 | $4,225 | $50,701 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $650.01 | $2,817 | $33,801 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Clemson) | $40.63 |
| 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 Clemson, SC earn a median of $84,497 per year (2026 est.), which is 15.74% lower than the national median of $100,283 and 7.90% below the South Carolina state average of $91,744.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $40.63/hr = $50,701/year (purchasing power: $55,411).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $84,501/year (purchasing power: $92,351).
CoL index: 91.5 (100 = national average). Your dollars stretch further here.
2019 BLS Actual
$29.74/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$38.68/hr
2026 Current Est.
$40.63/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Clemson (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $29.74/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $30.26/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $31.34/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $32.45/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $33.92/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $29.17/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $38.68/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $40.63/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $42.67/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Clemson grew 30.1% from $29.74/hr (2019) to $38.68/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $42.67/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 Clemson 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 Clemson
Focusing on part-time work, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Clemson can generate a different earning scenario compared to full-time employment. Taking home approximately $55,120 annually while maintaining a flexible schedule may appeal to those balancing family or educational commitments. For per-diem assignments, compensation is often higher—billing at rates between $55 and $85 per hour, depending on the specific demands of the job. Travel MRI techs, particularly those in cardiac imaging, can command weekly contracts ranging from $2,200 to $3,400. The type of employer also influences pay rates; those working in hospitals generally receive salaries that may include benefits, while outpatient centers, mobile MRI units, and orthopedic practices often provide higher hourly pay but without additional perks like health insurance. Technologists must weigh these options carefully, as higher per-hour rates come with trade-offs regarding job security and benefits. For those negotiating their hourly rate in Clemson, being informed about local market rates while highlighting specialized credentials such as ARRT(R)(MR) or MRSO certification could enhance bargaining power.
More salary data for Clemson, SC:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Clemson in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Clemson?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Clemson paid hourly or salary?
How much does a full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist make per year in Clemson?
Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Clemson?
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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 Clemson. 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 Clemson 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