Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) technologists play a vital role in modern healthcare by operating advanced imaging equipment that helps doctors diagnose and treat medical conditions. In Texas, the demand for MRI technologists continues to grow thanks to the state’s expanding healthcare system, rising population, and increased need for diagnostic imaging. For anyone considering a career as an MRI tech in Texas—or those already working in the field—the question of salary and earning potential is one of the most important factors to explore.

This guide takes a comprehensive look at MRI tech salaries in Texas, breaking down statewide averages, city-by-city comparisons, factors that influence pay, and the outlook for this career path.

MRI Tech Salary in Texas

When evaluating MRI technologist salaries in Texas, it’s important to rely on data from credible sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), state labor market reports, and verified healthcare salary surveys. These numbers give an accurate picture of what MRI technologists earn in Texas compared to other states and across different regions of the state.

Average Salary Overview

Average annual salary for MRI technologists in Texas: Around $80,000 – $83,000
Average hourly wage: Approximately $38 – $40 per hour
National average salary (for comparison): About $86,000 per year

While Texas salaries for MRI technologists are slightly lower than the national average, the state makes up for it with a lower cost of living in many areas, especially outside major metropolitan regions like Dallas, Houston, and Austin.

Salary Range

MRI technologist salaries in Texas can vary widely based on experience, location, and work setting:

Entry-level MRI technologists (0–2 years of experience): $58,000 – $65,000 annually
Mid-career MRI technologists (3–7 years of experience): $70,000 – $85,000 annually
Experienced MRI technologists (8+ years of experience): $90,000 – $100,000+ annually

Texas Salary Table

Experience Level	Hourly Wage	Annual Salary (Approx.)
Entry-Level	$28 – $31	$58,000 – $65,000
Mid-Career	$34 – $41	$70,000 – $85,000
Experienced	$43 – $48	$90,000 – $100,000+

Key takeaway: MRI technologists in Texas have strong earning potential, particularly those with advanced certifications and years of experience in busy metropolitan hospitals or specialty imaging centers.

City-by-City Salary Comparison

Texas is a vast state with significant economic diversity. MRI tech salaries vary by city, influenced by factors such as demand for healthcare services, cost of living, and competition among healthcare employers.

Houston

Average annual salary: $82,000 – $88,000
Houston is home to the Texas Medical Center, the largest medical complex in the world, which drives demand for skilled MRI technologists.

Dallas–Fort Worth (DFW)

Average annual salary: $80,000 – $85,000
The DFW metroplex has a large concentration of hospitals, imaging centers, and specialty clinics, offering competitive wages.

Austin

Average annual salary: $79,000 – $84,000
While slightly below Houston and Dallas, Austin’s salary range is strong. The growing population and expansion of healthcare facilities contribute to rising demand.

San Antonio

Average annual salary: $76,000 – $81,000
San Antonio salaries are a bit lower, but cost of living is also more affordable compared to Austin or Dallas.

El Paso

Average annual salary: $72,000 – $77,000
El Paso has some of the lowest wages for MRI technologists in Texas, largely due to lower regional healthcare wages overall.

Salary Table by Major Cities

City	Average Annual Salary	Average Hourly Wage
Houston	$82,000 – $88,000	$39 – $42
Dallas–Fort Worth	$80,000 – $85,000	$38 – $41
Austin	$79,000 – $84,000	$37 – $40
San Antonio	$76,000 – $81,000	$36 – $39
El Paso	$72,000 – $77,000	$34 – $37

Observation: Salaries are highest in Houston and Dallas, thanks to larger healthcare networks and greater competition for talent.

Factors That Influence MRI Tech Salaries in Texas

Several factors play a role in determining how much an MRI technologist earns in Texas:

1. Experience Level

Technologists in their first years typically start in the low $60,000s.
With 5–10 years of experience, earnings often climb into the $80,000s.
Seasoned professionals with 15+ years and advanced credentials may exceed $100,000 in larger metro areas.

2. Education and Certification

Most MRI technologists complete an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in radiologic technology or a related field.
Certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) is a standard requirement for higher-paying roles.
Technologists with multiple certifications (for example, CT and MRI) often earn higher salaries.

3. Type of Employer

Hospitals and medical centers: Typically pay the highest wages due to high patient volume.
Outpatient imaging centers: Competitive pay, often with more flexible schedules.
Physician offices or smaller clinics: Usually lower pay but may offer work-life balance benefits.

4. Geographic Location

Major metro areas offer higher pay but often come with higher living costs.
Smaller towns and rural areas may pay less, but job competition can be lower.

5. Shift and Schedule

MRI technologists who work evening, night, or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials that boost overall earnings.
Full-time positions with overtime opportunities can lead to significant annual pay increases.

6. Industry Demand

Texas continues to see population growth, especially in urban areas, which directly impacts healthcare demand.
The aging population also increases the need for diagnostic imaging, creating more opportunities and supporting salary growth.

Comparing MRI Tech Salaries in Texas vs. Other States

MRI technologist salaries in Texas sit slightly below the national average but remain competitive, particularly in urban centers.

National average salary: $86,000 annually
Texas average salary: $80,000 – $83,000 annually

Regional Comparisons

California: $105,000+ (highest-paying state)
New York: Around $95,000
Florida: $77,000 – $79,000
Texas: $80,000 – $83,000

Insight: While Texas doesn’t top the national salary charts, the combination of solid wages, a relatively affordable cost of living (outside cities like Austin), and strong job security makes it a very attractive state for MRI technologists.

Cost of Living and Salary Value in Texas

Understanding MRI technologist salaries requires looking at real income value, which factors in the cost of living.

Houston & Dallas: Higher salaries but higher housing and transportation costs.
San Antonio & El Paso: Lower salaries, but cost of living is more affordable, allowing wages to stretch further.
Austin: Competitive salaries but one of the fastest-rising housing markets in Texas.

For many MRI technologists, Texas offers a good balance between salary and affordability compared to high-paying states like California, where the cost of living can drastically reduce take-home value.

Job Outlook for MRI Technologists in Texas

The career outlook for MRI technologists in Texas is strong. According to labor market projections:

Job growth (2019–2029): About 7% nationally, slightly faster than average.
Texas outlook: Growth is expected to meet or exceed the national average due to population expansion and the state’s role as a healthcare hub.

With an aging population and increasing reliance on diagnostic imaging, MRI technologists will remain in demand across Texas hospitals, outpatient centers, and specialty clinics.

MRI Tech Salary in Texas (Continued)

We’ve already looked at the core salary data, city-by-city comparisons, and the major factors influencing MRI technologist earnings in Texas. Now, let’s go deeper into the benefits and perks, career advancement opportunities, salary breakdown by work setting, and the educational pathways that can shape your earnings in this field.

Benefits and Perks for MRI Technologists in Texas

In addition to their base salary, MRI technologists in Texas often receive a range of benefits that add significant value to their total compensation package. These vary by employer, but common perks include:

Health insurance: Most hospitals and large clinics provide comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
Retirement plans: Many employers offer 401(k) matching or pension contributions.
Paid time off (PTO): Includes vacation, sick days, and holidays.
Continuing education support: Employers may cover the cost of ARRT continuing education credits or advanced certification training.
Shift differentials: Extra pay for evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Tuition reimbursement: Some health systems help fund further education for MRI technologists pursuing bachelor’s degrees or advanced imaging specializations.
Job stability: Given the growing demand for imaging, MRI technologists enjoy strong employment security.

Key point: When comparing job offers, MRI technologists should look beyond just salary and consider the total compensation package.

Salary Differences by Work Setting

MRI technologists in Texas can work in a variety of healthcare environments, and the type of employer can significantly impact pay.

Hospitals

Average salary: $82,000 – $88,000
Hospitals usually pay more due to high patient volume and more complex cases.
Opportunities for overtime and shift differentials can boost earnings.

Outpatient Imaging Centers

Average salary: $78,000 – $84,000
Competitive wages with potentially more predictable work schedules.
High demand as more patients seek imaging services outside hospital systems.

Physician Offices and Clinics

Average salary: $72,000 – $76,000
Typically lower salaries, but better work-life balance and daytime-only hours.

Academic or Research Institutions

Average salary: $76,000 – $80,000
Slightly lower pay than hospitals, but often paired with excellent benefits, research involvement, and educational opportunities.

Observation: For MRI technologists prioritizing income, hospitals and outpatient centers offer the strongest financial return, while physician offices often appeal to those valuing work-life balance.

Career Advancement Opportunities

One of the advantages of working as an MRI technologist in Texas is the potential to advance your career and increase your salary through specialization and leadership roles.

1. Advanced Certifications

Adding certifications in Computed Tomography (CT), Nuclear Medicine, or Radiography can significantly increase earning potential.
Multi-certified technologists are highly valued in Texas’ competitive healthcare markets.

2. Lead MRI Technologist or Supervisor

With experience, MRI technologists may move into leadership roles overseeing a department.
Salaries for lead or supervisory positions can reach $95,000 – $105,000 annually in Texas.

3. Clinical Instructor or Educator

Technologists who enjoy teaching may become instructors in radiologic technology programs.
While teaching salaries may be slightly lower than clinical roles, they offer stability and career longevity.

4. Healthcare Administration

With additional education (such as a bachelor’s or master’s degree in healthcare administration), MRI technologists can transition into administrative or managerial roles, often earning well above $100,000 annually.

Education and Training Pathways in Texas

Becoming an MRI technologist in Texas requires formal education, clinical training, and certification. These educational investments influence initial salary levels and long-term career growth.

Step 1: Formal Education

Most MRI technologists in Texas begin with an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in Radiologic Technology.
Some pursue a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Radiologic Sciences, which can open the door to higher-paying jobs and advancement.

Step 2: Certification

The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) credential in MRI is the industry standard.
Some technologists start as radiologic technologists (RTs) and later specialize in MRI.

Step 3: Continuing Education

To maintain ARRT certification, technologists must complete 24 continuing education credits every two years.
This ensures MRI technologists stay current with new technologies and practices—important for staying competitive in the Texas job market.

Education Institutions in Texas

Several colleges and universities in Texas offer accredited programs, including:

Houston Community College
El Centro College (Dallas College)
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center School of Health Professions
South Texas College (McAllen)

Note: Graduates of these programs often have strong employment prospects thanks to the high demand for imaging specialists across the state.

Work-Life Balance and Job Environment

MRI technologists in Texas enjoy a career that balances technical skills with patient care. However, work-life balance can vary depending on the employer and schedule:

Hospital jobs: May involve nights, weekends, and holiday shifts but usually come with higher pay.
Outpatient centers: More predictable weekday schedules, appealing for those seeking regular hours.
Smaller clinics: Lower pay but steady daytime schedules with fewer emergencies.

Overall, MRI technologists report a good balance of job satisfaction, pay, and job stability compared to many other allied health careers.

The Impact of Texas’ Healthcare Growth

Texas is home to some of the fastest-growing metropolitan areas in the United States. Cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston are not only increasing in population but also expanding their healthcare infrastructure.

The Texas Medical Center in Houston continues to attract global recognition, offering some of the highest-paying opportunities for MRI technologists.
The aging population across Texas drives consistent demand for imaging, particularly MRI scans used for diagnosing neurological and musculoskeletal conditions.
Healthcare employment overall is projected to be one of the largest areas of job growth in Texas over the next decade.

Bottom line: The strong healthcare expansion ensures MRI technologists will remain in demand, supporting stable and competitive wages.

Conclusion

For those pursuing a career in diagnostic imaging, working as an MRI technologist in Texas offers a promising balance of salary, job security, and growth opportunities. While Texas wages are slightly lower than the national average, the combination of competitive pay, strong demand, and lower cost of living makes it one of the best states to build a career in this field.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance your career, Texas provides a wide range of opportunities across hospitals, outpatient centers, and clinics—ensuring that MRI technologists remain vital, valued, and well-compensated professionals in the healthcare industry.