Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Herndon, VA: $46.61 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Herndon, VA runs $46.61 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $96,944 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Herndon's regional price level (BEA RPP 103.2, 3% above national), each hour of work buys what $45.17 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $58,172 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
Magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Herndon, VA, earn a median hourly rate of $46.61, which is slightly below the national median of $48.21. This compensation level is significant for both part-time and per-diem workers, who typically operate in a variety of settings, including hospital MRI suites and outpatient imaging centers. For part-time MRI technologists working a three-day week, this translates to about 24 hours of work, allowing for a flexible yet lucrative schedule. The hourly ranges in Herndon stretch from $37.46 for entry-level positions up to $56.66 for top earners, showcasing the potential for higher pay as experience and specialization, especially in areas such as cardiac MRI, increase. These hourly rates are informed by projected annual salary estimates derived from 2025 BLS data.
About the Herndon Market
Salary estimated from Virginia average ($80,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $37.46 | $299.71 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $41.81 | $334.50 |
| Median (P50) | $46.61 | $372.90 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $49.34 | $394.74 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $56.66 | $453.31 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Herndon
Based on $46.61/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $46.61/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Herndon, VA can expect to earn approximately $96,954 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $55,935. With a cost-of-living index of 103.20 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Herndon.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Herndon
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $1,864.49 | $8,079 | $96,954 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,118.70 | $4,848 | $58,172 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $745.80 | $3,232 | $38,781 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Herndon) | $46.61 |
| 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 Herndon, VA earn a median of $96,944 per year (2026 est.), which is 3.33% lower than the national median of $100,283 and 6.30% below the Virginia state average of $103,462.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $46.61/hr = $58,172/year (purchasing power: $56,368).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $96,954/year (purchasing power: $93,947).
CoL index: 103.2 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$34.12/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$44.38/hr
2026 Current Est.
$46.61/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Herndon (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $34.12/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $34.72/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $35.96/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $37.23/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $38.92/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $37.18/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $44.38/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $46.61/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $48.96/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Herndon grew 30.1% from $34.12/hr (2019) to $44.38/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $48.96/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 Herndon 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 Herndon
In terms of annual earnings, part-time MRI technologists in Herndon who work 24 hours per week can expect to take home a substantial income, significantly more than many other professions with similar schedules. Per diem magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in Herndon varies widely, with some professionals billing between $55 and $85 per hour. Those specializing in cardiac MRI can see even higher rates, sometimes reaching $75-$110 per hour. Travel contracts for MRI technologists also provide lucrative opportunities, often ranging from $2,200 to $3,400 weekly. However, the hourly pay can differ based on the type of employer. Hospital roles may offer benefits that outweigh slightly lower hourly rates, while outpatient centers may attract workers willing to accept reduced benefits for higher pay. Negotiating effectively is crucial, particularly in a competitive market like Herndon, where specialties such as cardiac imaging are in demand. Understanding these dynamics can empower MRI technologists to optimize their career earnings based on their unique circumstances and career goals.
More salary data for Herndon, VA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Herndon in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Herndon?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Herndon paid hourly or salary?
How much does a full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist make per year in Herndon?
Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Herndon?
Related Pages
Compare Salaries
Career Resources
Nearby Cities in Virginia
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 Herndon. 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 Herndon 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