Travel MRI Technologist Salary Guide

MRI technologists are allied health professionals who operate magnetic resonance imaging equipment. This type of imaging uses strong magnets and a radio frequency current to take three-dimensional images of the human body. Before imaging, the MRI technologist must ask questions about the patient's medical history and then position the patient in the MRI scanner. When necessary, the technologist injects contrast media into an intravenous line to enhance the appearance of specific structures. After performing the scan, an MRI technologist reviews the images to confirm they meet the ordering physician's requirements.

How do you become an MRI technologist?

To become an MRI technologist, you must obtain an associate degree in radiologic technology or MRI technology. This 2-year degree includes coursework in anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, patient care and other relevant topics. Accredited programs also include clinical experience requirements to ensure you know how to operate MRI equipment safely. According to the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, as of April 3, 2023, six states require MRI technologists to be licensed, which include:

  • New Hampshire

  • New Mexico

  • North Dakota

  • Oregon

  • Tennessee

  • West Virginia

If you intend to start as a radiologic technologist and become an MRI technologist later, you may need to obtain a license before you start working, as 42 states require a license to work as a radiologic technologist. Check with your state licensing body to learn exactly what you need to work as an MRI or radiologic technologist in your area.

Average Travel MRI Technologist Salary

$2,498/week

The average salary for a Travel MRI Technologist is $2,498 per week. This is 1% higher than the practicing US average of $2,471.

Last updated on July 2, 2026. Based on 6,517 active jobs on Vivian.com in the last 7 days.

Salaries for Travel MRI Technologist compared to Allied Health Professional National Averages

$2,498/week

1% higher than the practicing US average.

$2,471/week

United States

Where do Travel MRI Technologists get paid the most?
StateAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Vermont$2,991$4,045
Connecticut$2,965$3,594
Massachusetts$2,927$3,800
Minnesota$2,916$3,384
Iowa$2,796$3,085
South Dakota$2,795$2,962
Wisconsin$2,780$3,440
New Hampshire$2,778$4,000
Alaska$2,756$3,735
Rhode Island$2,740$3,318
New York$2,718$4,000
Hawaii$2,708$3,195
California$2,701$3,457
Illinois$2,668$3,436
Arizona$2,666$3,161
Pennsylvania$2,650$3,293
New Jersey$2,643$3,136
Maryland$2,600$2,920
Washington$2,594$3,898
Nebraska$2,550$3,254
What cities pay the most for Travel MRI Technologists?
CityAverage Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
Exeter, New Hampshire$3,800$3,800
Coon Rapids, Minnesota$3,686$3,686
Fall River, Massachusetts$3,571$3,571
Cooperstown, New York$3,426$3,806
Columbia, Maryland$3,333$3,333
La Mesa, California$3,269$3,269
Pikesville, Maryland$3,255$3,255
Oneonta, New York$3,247$3,406
Salem, Virginia$3,206$3,366
Portsmouth, New Hampshire$3,170$3,170
What are the highest paying Employers and Agencies for Travel MRI Technologist jobs?
Average Weekly SalaryMax Weekly Salary
FlexStaff$3,943$3,943
Express Healthcare Staffing NY$3,453$3,806
AMHS Staffing Alliance$3,365$3,365
MediPro$3,144$3,144
Patterns Hiring$3,123$3,400
AB Staffing Solutions$3,112$3,224
Tact Staff$3,112$3,112
Smarter Healthcare Partners$3,108$3,280
HealthTrust Workforce Solution External$3,050$3,050
Commonwealth Healthcare LLC$3,039$3,200

Last updated on July 2, 2026. Information based on active jobs on Vivian.com.

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Travel MRI Technologist Career Guide

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How can you increase your pay as a travel MRI technologist?

Travel MRI technologists earn approximately 17.8% more than staff MRI techs, allowing you to make more without investing in additional education or certifications.

How much does an travel MRI technologist make?

According to Vivian's data, travel MRI technologists averaged $2,497 for the week ending in April 8, 2023, which works out to $32,461 for a 13-week contract or $64,922 for a 26-week contract.

Do travel MRI technologists earn more than staff MRI technologists?

Travel MRI technologists generally make more than staff MRI technologists. On April 8, 2023, Vivian Health reported that staff jobs paid an average of $52.98 per hour, or $2,120 weekly in a standard 40-hour workweek. In contrast, travel MRI technologists earned an average of $2,497 per week, an increase of nearly $400.

What states employ the most MRI technologists?

BLS data for 2021 shows that the following states employ the most MRI technologists:

  • Florida: 3,270

  • Texas: 2,690

  • Illinois: 2,560

  • California” 2,470

  • New York: 2,230

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