Senior Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Burlington, IA: $109,914 (2026)
Quick Answer:The top tier of magnetic resonance imaging technologists working in Burlington, IA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $109,914/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2035. Strip back Burlington's price premium (BEA RPP 90.4, 10% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $121,586 in average-cost America. The 26% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.
Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source
In Burlington, the potential for experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists to secure competitive salaries is promising, with the 2026 projected rates revealing a top earner potential of $109,914. This figure significantly highlights the disparity within the field; the median annual salary stands at $87,047, illuminating the experience premium for seasoned professionals in this specialized domain. To achieve such noteworthy compensation, technologists often need to develop specific skills and expertise—particularly in niche areas such as cardiac MRI or advanced neuroimaging techniques. Those aiming for higher pay must not only commit to ongoing education and certifications, but also make strategic career moves, often seeking positions in leading facilities or specialized environments that compensate accordingly for advanced skills.
About the Burlington Market
Salary estimated from Iowa average ($74,000) adjusted for local cost of living.
2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Burlington
Experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists at the top of the pay scale in Burlington earn between $94,678 and $109,914 per year (2026 est.). This $43,663 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Burlington median of $87,047 sits 13.2% below the US median.
Top MRI Tech Salary Comparison
| Level | Burlington | National |
|---|---|---|
| Median (P50) | $87,047 | $100,283 |
| 75th Percentile | $94,678 | $111,689 |
| 90th Percentile (Top 10%) | $109,914 | $134,092 |
In Burlington, experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists (P90) earn 26.27% more than the local median — reflecting the significant value of specialization and tenure in this market.
What Drives Top Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Pay in Burlington
Advanced Certifications in Iowa
IA magnetic resonance imaging technologists with additional specialty certifications within the radiologic technology field earn significantly above the $87,047 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Burlington employers.
Specialty Focus
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the radiologic technology field in Burlington command premium compensation, often reaching the $94,678–$109,914 range.
Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience
Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Burlington metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.
Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships
Long-tenured magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Burlington with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.
Continuing Education & Leadership
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Iowa who pursue advanced degrees, mentor junior staff, or lead clinical education programs position themselves for the highest compensation tiers and management roles.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Career & Wage Growth Path in Burlington
Clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist
0-5 yearsSenior/Lead Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist
5-10 yearsMagnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Department Manager
10+ yearsEducator / Specialty Leadership
AdvancedBurlington ranks #17 of 26 Iowa cities for top earner magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary (90th percentile: $109,914).
Top 10% magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation in Burlington ($109,914) is 1.43% below the Iowa average P90 ($111,505).
2019 BLS Actual
$83,264
2025 BLS Actual
$104,650
2026 Current Est.
$109,914
2019–2027 Growth
+38.6%
Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Burlington (2019–2027)
2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.
| Year | Annual Salary | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | $83,264 | Actual |
| 2020 | $85,420 | Actual |
| 2021 | $82,682 | Actual |
| 2022 | $85,945 | Actual |
| 2023 | $92,150 | Actual |
| 2024 | $83,511 | Actual |
| 2025 | $104,650 | Actual |
| 2026(current) | $109,914 | Estimated |
| 2027 | $115,443 | Projected |
Top-earning magnetic resonance imaging technologists (90th percentile) in Burlington saw their compensation grow 25.7% from $83,264 in 2019 to $104,650 in 2025, based on 7 years of BLS OEWS data for this metropolitan area. At a 5.03% annual growth rate, senior-level pay is projected to reach $115,443 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.
Note: Historical values (2019–2025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Burlington 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.
Maximizing Your Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Earnings in Burlington
Analyzing the factors influencing senior magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in IA reveals a range of specialized roles that can impact earnings considerably. Technologists versed in neuroradiology MRI or those engaged in cutting-edge research on 3T and 7T scanners often find themselves among the highest earners. Compensation can vary based on the type of employer; for instance, hospital imaging departments may offer different metrics than outpatient centers or travel MRI companies. Advancement opportunities also abound, with roles such as lead MRI tech or applications specialist offering substantial salary boosts. Pursuing credentials like ARRT(MR) or becoming an MR safety officer not only enhances marketability but also often leads to a significant increase in salary. Moreover, additional compensation can stem from working night shifts, call coverage at trauma centers, or bonuses for specific subspecialty expertise, all contributing to a competitive compensation package for senior professionals in Burlington.
More salary data for Burlington, IA:
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Burlington in 2026?
What drives higher magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in Burlington?
What certifications boost magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in Burlington?
Can experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists make six figures in Burlington?
How much does magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary increase over time in Burlington?
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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
Top-earner salary figures on this page are 2026 projections derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey, May 2026 release. BLS reported a 90th percentile salary of $104,650 for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in the Burlington metro area. A 5.03% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), calculated from 6-year national BLS wage trends, was applied to project current 2026 senior-level compensation. Individual earnings depend on certifications, specialization, practice type, and years of clinical experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Salary data for Burlington 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