MRI Technologist Pay

Senior Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary in Marshalltown, IA: $110,976 (2026)

Quick Answer:The top tier of magnetic resonance imaging technologists working in Marshalltown, IA — those at or above the 90th percentile — pull in $110,976/year or more for 2026, based on BLS OEWS 2025 estimates for SOC 29-2035. Strip back Marshalltown's price premium (BEA RPP 90.4, 10% below national) and that top-decile pay carries the same buying power as $122,761 in average-cost America. The 29% spread above city median typically rewards 7+ years of practice or specialty credentials.

$110,976
Top 10% Earn
$53.36/hr
Top Hourly Rate
$94,730
75th Percentile
$110,976
90th Percentile

Based on BLS state-level estimates · View source

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Senior Salary in Marshalltown, IA — 2026 est., based on 2025 BLS
Marshalltown, IA magnetic resonance imaging technologist senior salary overview (2026 est., based on 2025 BLS)

A senior magnetic resonance imaging technologist's salary in Marshalltown, Iowa, can be quite favorable, with top earners (P90) projected to reach $110,976 annually in 2026. This figure not only reflects a substantial experience premium over the median salary of $86,342 but also positions those at the pinnacle of their profession as competitive compared to national standards, where the highest earners on a national scale earn a median of $100,283. Professionals aiming for these elite salary levels often need to solidify their expertise through advanced specializations, extensive hands-on experience, and possibly taking on leadership roles within their organizations. Achieving this top-tier pay demands not just technical skill but also the ability to manage complex cases and mentor less experienced colleagues effectively.

About the Marshalltown Market

Salary estimated from Iowa average ($74,000) adjusted for local cost of living.

2026 Salary Percentile Distribution in Marshalltown

Vertical bar chart of 10th through 90th percentile salaries for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown. The median salary is $86,342, compared to the national median of $100,283.$59.0K$73.4K$87.8K$102.1K$116.5K$65.5K10th Pctl$72.8K25th Pctl$86.3KMedian$94.7K75th Pctl$111.0K90th PctlUS Median$100.3K

Experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists at the top of the pay scale in Marshalltown earn between $94,730 and $110,976 per year (2026 est.). This $45,448 range from 10th to 90th percentile reflects significant earnings potential growth over a career. The Marshalltown median of $86,342 sits 13.9% below the US median.

Source: BLS OEWS projected to 2026. Percentiles reflect the distribution of magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in the Marshalltown metro area.

Top MRI Tech Salary Comparison

LevelMarshalltownNational
Median (P50)$86,342$100,283
75th Percentile$94,730$111,689
90th Percentile (Top 10%)$110,976$134,092

In Marshalltown, experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists (P90) earn 28.53% 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 Marshalltown

1

Advanced Certifications in Iowa

IA magnetic resonance imaging technologists with additional specialty certifications within the radiologic technology field earn significantly above the $86,342 median. Expanded-scope credentials are increasingly valued by Marshalltown employers.

2

Specialty Focus

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists focusing on high-acuity or specialty areas within the radiologic technology field in Marshalltown command premium compensation, often reaching the $94,730–$110,976 range.

3

Large Health-System & Multi-Site Experience

Large hospital systems and multi-site employers in the Marshalltown metro area often pay above-market rates for experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists who demonstrate efficiency and leadership.

4

Employer Loyalty & Patient Relationships

Long-tenured magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown with established relationships have strong negotiating leverage. In this developing market, retention bonuses and annual raises are common for top performers.

5

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 Marshalltown

Clinical Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist

0-5 years
$65,528 – $86,342

Senior/Lead Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist

5-10 years
$86,342 – $94,730

Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Department Manager

10+ years
$94,730+

Educator / Specialty Leadership

Advanced
Varies by role

Marshalltown ranks #15 of 26 Iowa cities for top earner magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary (90th percentile: $110,976).

Top 10% magnetic resonance imaging technologist compensation in Marshalltown ($110,976) is 0.47% below the Iowa average P90 ($111,505).

2019 BLS Actual

$84,069

2025 BLS Actual

$105,661

2026 Current Est.

$110,976

2019–2027 Growth

+38.6%

Salary Trajectory for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists in Marshalltown (20192027)

2019–2025: actual BLS OEWS data for this metro area. 2026+: CAGR 5.03% projection.

BLS Actual Estimated Projected
Salary trajectory chart for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown. Baseline $84,069 in 2025, projected to $116,558 by 2027.$76.9K$88.4K$100.0K$111.6K$123.2K2019202020212022202320242025202620272025 BLS$84.1K$86.2K$83.5K$86.8K$93.0K$84.4K$105.7K$111.0K$116.6K
YearAnnual SalaryStatus
2019$84,069Actual
2020$86,245Actual
2021$83,481Actual
2022$86,775Actual
2023$93,040Actual
2024$84,352Actual
2025$105,661Actual
2026(current)$110,976Estimated
2027$116,558Projected

Top-earning magnetic resonance imaging technologists (90th percentile) in Marshalltown saw their compensation grow 25.7% from $84,069 in 2019 to $105,661 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 $116,558 by 2027, reflecting continued demand for clinical expertise and expanded-function credentials.

Note: Historical values (20192025) are actual BLS OEWS figures for the Marshalltown metropolitan area, sourced from annual Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics surveys. 20262026 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 Marshalltown

In-depth knowledge of specialized MRI techniques can greatly impact compensation potential for experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown. Focusing on niches such as neuroradiology MRI or cardiac MRI might allow for higher pay, especially when working in hospital imaging departments that increasingly value these competencies. Each employer type — from outpatient imaging centers to travel MRI tech agencies — offers varied compensation packages, often influenced by the complexity and demand of local healthcare needs. Advancement opportunities abound in roles such as modality supervisor or applications specialist for major imaging equipment manufacturers like Siemens or GE. Furthermore, obtaining credentials like ARRT(MR) or MR safety officer (MRSO) can also enhance pay prospects and job security, along with favorable non-salary incentives that emerge from specialized shifts and call coverage at trauma centers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists make in Marshalltown in 2026?

Top-earning magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown (90th percentile) make $110,976/year, based on estimated 2026 salary (projected from 2025 BLS data at 5.03% annual growth). This is $24,634 more than the area median of $86,342 — representing a significant experience premium. Senior magnetic resonance imaging technologists typically reach this level after 10+ years of clinical experience combined with specialty certifications, strong patient relationships, and working at high-production or specialty practices.

What drives higher magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in Marshalltown?

Higher magnetic resonance imaging technologist pay in Marshalltown is driven by several key factors: years of clinical experience (10+ years for top tier), specializations, expanded-function certifications that allow additional procedures, and employment at high-production practices or large organizations. Geographic factors within the metro area also matter — practices in affluent neighborhoods or underserved areas often pay premium rates. Building a loyal patient base and strong clinical reputation further supports salary negotiation.

What certifications boost magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary in Marshalltown?

The most impactful salary-boosting certifications for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in Marshalltown include specialty certifications, advanced treatment certifications, and expanded-function credentials. These certifications can increase earnings well above the median of $86,342, especially when combined with experience at specialty practices.

Can experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists make six figures in Marshalltown?

Yes — the 90th percentile salary in Marshalltown is $110,976, well above $100K. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists with 10+ years of experience, advanced certifications, and strong negotiation skills are most likely to reach this level. Working at multiple practices, taking on mentoring responsibilities, or specializing in high-demand areas can further push earnings above six figures.

How much does magnetic resonance imaging technologist salary increase over time in Marshalltown?

In Marshalltown, the gap between entry level ($65,528) and top earners ($110,976) is $45,448, reflecting significant earning potential over a career. Most salary growth occurs in the first 5–10 years through accumulated clinical experience and additional credentials. After year 10, growth slows unless you pursue management roles, teaching positions, or transition into consulting. Continuous professional development is essential for maximizing long-term earnings.

Related Pages

Nearby Cities in Iowa

CT

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.

Clinically reviewed by Jamal Patel, R.T. (R)(MR)Data verified by Li Chen, MS, R.T. (R)(MR)

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 $105,661 for magnetic resonance imaging technologists in the Marshalltown 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 Marshalltown is estimated from official BLS state-level occupational wage data (2025), adjusted for regional cost-of-living differences using BEA RPP (Regional Price Parities).

View estimation methodology

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

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