Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Bismarck, ND: $90,939 (2026)
Quick Answer:A full-time magnetic resonance imaging technologist in Bismarck, ND earns a median $90,939/year (≈ $43.72/hour) in nominal terms for 2026 — projected from BLS OEWS 2025 (SOC 29-2035). Once you factor in Bismarck's price level (8% below national, BEA RPP 92.0), that paycheck buys what $98,847 would nationally. Nominal pay sits 1.4% below the North Dakota state average.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In 2026, magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Bismarck, North Dakota, can expect a median salary of $90,939, considerably lower than the national median of $100,283. The local salary range spans from $68,856 at the lower end (P10) to $117,167 at the higher end (P90), reflecting variations influenced by subspecialty expertise and experience. These estimates, derived from BLS state-level data and regional cost adjustments, are noteworthy in a market where advanced MRI techniques like cardiac imaging and neuro specialties demand higher compensation. As Bismarck embraces these subspecialties, the ability to operate newer technologies, including 3T scanners, may further enhance earnings potential, making the local job market appealing for both current and aspiring MRI professionals.
About the Bismarck Market
Salary estimated from North Dakota average ($78,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
Salary Breakdown
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (P10) | $68,856 | $33.11 |
| Lower Range (P25) | $79,006 | $37.98 |
| Median (P50)(typical) | $90,939 | $43.72 |
| Upper Range (P75) | $99,235 | $47.70 |
| Top Earners (P90) | $117,167 | $56.33 |
Median Salary Position
9.32% below the national average
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Bismarck
In Bismarck, ND, the magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary spread from the 10th to 90th percentile is $48,311 (2026 est.). At $90,939, the local median is 9.32% below the national median of $100,283.
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How Bismarck Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Pay Compares
Bismarck median: $90,939/year (2026)
| Compared To | Median Salary | Bismarck Pays |
|---|---|---|
| North Dakota Average | $92,230 | -1.40% less |
| National Average | $100,283 | -9.32% less |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Bismarck, ND earn a median of $90,939 per year (2026 est.), which is 9.32% lower than the national median of $100,283 and 1.40% below the North Dakota state average of $92,230.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Salary
Bismarck has a cost of living 8.00% below the national average, meaning your salary goes further here.
Adjusted salary = nominal × (100 / CoL index). CoL index: 100 = national average.
Bismarck, ND has a cost-of-living index of 92 (below the national average of 100). A magnetic resonance imaging technologist earning $90,939 nominally has purchasing power equivalent to $98,847 in an average-cost city — an effective 8.7% boost.
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2019 BLS Actual
$66,570
2025 BLS Actual
$86,584
2026 Current Est.
$90,939
2019–2027 Growth
+43.5%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Bismarck (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $66,570 | Actual |
| 2020 | $67,731 | Actual |
| 2021 | $70,152 | Actual |
| 2022 | $72,628 | Actual |
| 2023 | $75,938 | Actual |
| 2024 | $70,733 | Actual |
| 2025 | $86,584 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $90,939 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $95,513 | Projected |
Based on 7 years of BLS OEWS data for the Bismarck metropolitan area, the median magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary grew 30.1% from $66,570 (2019) to $86,584 (2025). At a 5.03% compound annual growth rate, salaries are projected to reach $95,513 by 2027 — a total increase of $28,943 (43.48%) from 2019.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Bismarck 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.
Salary by Experience Level
| Experience | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|
| 0-2 years (New Graduate) | $68,856 – $79,006 |
| 3-5 years (Mid Career) | $79,006 – $90,939 |
| 5+ years (Experienced) | $90,939 – $99,235 |
| 10+ years (Top Earner) | $99,235 – $117,167 |
MRI Tech salary ranges estimated from BLS percentile data. Individual magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation varies by employer, certifications, and specialization.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Job Market in Bismarck
In the Bismarck area, the job market for magnetic resonance imaging technologists consists of a modest workforce of 11, highlighting a competitive yet less saturated environment. The cost of living index sits at 92, which means that take-home pay remains relatively strong when considering local living expenses. Employers such as hospital imaging departments and outpatient MRI centers like RadNet and SimonMed typically provide the highest salaries, while mobile MRI services and orthopedic practices may offer competitive pay as well. Variability in earnings can stem from subspecialization, shift differentials for nights and weekends, as well as call coverage at trauma centers. Additionally, pursuing MRSO certification and engaging in applications specialist roles can create additional revenue streams. For those looking to maximize their earnings, focusing on demand-driven techniques, seeking night shifts, and acquiring niche certifications will likely enhance their overall pay in the Bismarck ND market.
More salary data for Bismarck, ND:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Bismarck, ND in 2026?
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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
Salary figures on this page are 2026 projections based on the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. The BLS reported a median annual salary of $86,584 for magnetic resonance imaging technologistsin the Bismarck metropolitan area. A 5.03% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 compensation. Percentile ranges (P10–P90) represent the full salary distribution across experience levels and practice settings in this market.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Bismarck 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