Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay in Tukwila, WA: $47.86 (2026)
Quick Answer:Hourly pay for a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working in Tukwila, WA runs $47.86 at the median for 2026 — annualizing to $99,553 at a standard 2,080-hour year. Figures projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Weighted against Tukwila's regional price level (BEA RPP 107.4, 7% above national), each hour of work buys what $44.56 nationally would. A 24-hour part-time schedule grosses $59,732 per year.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

In Tukwila, Washington, the magnetic resonance imaging technologist hourly pay stands at $47.86, slightly lower than the national median of $48.21. This competitive rate provides significant opportunities for part-time and per-diem workers in dynamic settings such as hospital MRI suites or outpatient centers. The range of hourly pay varies widely as well, with entry-level technologists earning about $37.60 and experienced professionals reaching up to $59.86. These figures reflect the ongoing demand for skilled MRI technologists, particularly as the use of advanced modalities like 3T scanners becomes more common in practice. Technologists often work in diverse environments, from mobile MRI operations to specialized clinics, allowing for flexible scheduling and the potential for supplemental income through additional shifts.
About the Tukwila Market
Salary estimated from Washington average ($108,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Wage Breakdown
| Percentile | Hourly Rate | Per 8hr Shift |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $37.60 | $300.81 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $41.08 | $328.62 |
| Median (P50) | $47.86 | $382.90 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $51.71 | $413.65 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $59.86 | $478.85 |
Estimated Annual Income by Work Schedule in Tukwila
Based on $47.86/hr median hourly rate · 2026 est.
At $47.86/hr, a magnetic resonance imaging technologist working full-time (40 hr/wk) in Tukwila, WA can expect to earn approximately $99,553 per year (2026 est.). Part-time hygienists working 24 hours per week would earn around $57,435. With a cost-of-living index of 107.40 (above the national average), these earnings may be offset by higher expenses in Tukwila.
Hourly Rate Calculator
Schedule Comparison in Tukwila
| Schedule | Weekly | Monthly | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time (40 hrs) | $1,914.49 | $8,296 | $99,553 |
| Part-Time (24 hrs) | $1,148.69 | $4,978 | $59,732 |
| Per Diem (16 hrs) | $765.79 | $3,318 | $39,821 |
Compare MRI Tech Wages With Similar Roles
| Role | Median Hourly |
|---|---|
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist (Tukwila) | $47.86 |
| 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 Tukwila, WA earn a median of $99,553 per year (2026 est.), which is 0.73% lower than the national median of $100,283 and 7.60% below the Washington state average of $107,741.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Hourly Pay vs. Cost of Living
Working 24h/week at $47.86/hr = $59,732/year (purchasing power: $55,616).
Working 40h/week (full-time) = $99,553/year (purchasing power: $92,694).
CoL index: 107.4 (100 = national average).
2019 BLS Actual
$35.04/hr
2025 BLS Actual
$45.57/hr
2026 Current Est.
$47.86/hr
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Hourly Rate Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Tukwila (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Hourly Rate | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $35.04/hr | Actual |
| 2020 | $35.65/hr | Actual |
| 2021 | $36.92/hr | Actual |
| 2022 | $38.22/hr | Actual |
| 2023 | $39.97/hr | Actual |
| 2024 | $51.55/hr | Actual |
| 2025 | $45.57/hr | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $47.86/hr | Estimated |
| 2027 | $50.27/hr | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, the median hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Tukwila grew 30.1% from $35.04/hr (2019) to $45.57/hr (2025). At a 5.03% projected growth rate, hourly pay is expected to reach $50.27/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 Tukwila 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 Tukwila
For those considering part-time work as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist, working three days a week at 24 hours can yield an annual take-home that still competes well with full-time positions. Per-diem rates for MRI techs can swing from $55 to $85 per hour, with higher rates of $75 to $110 for cardiac MRI specialties. Travel contracts for MRI technologists in Tukwila provide lucrative opportunities, with weekly earnings ranging from $2,200 to $3,400, especially for cardiac-focused roles. The employer type significantly impacts hourly rates; hospitals typically offer lower hourly wages but provide health benefits, while freestanding centers or travel agencies may pay higher but without the same level of advantages. Negotiating hourly pay in Tukwila can depend on showcasing unique skills and certifications, particularly in emerging subspecialties like cardiac and mpMRI, which enhance a technologist's value in the job market.
More salary data for Tukwila, WA:
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hourly rate for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Tukwila in 2026?
How much do part-time magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Tukwila?
Are magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Tukwila paid hourly or salary?
How much does a full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist make per year in Tukwila?
Do magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn more per hour working part-time in Tukwila?
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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 Tukwila. 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 Tukwila 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