How much do MRI technologists make in Colorado? The median annual salary is $90,000, which is $1,820 above the national median of $88,180. Colorado MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $43.27.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Colorado by metro area using Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2024), adds cost-of-living context, and covers how to start your career in the state.
Colorado salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $110,000 | $52.88/hr |
| 75th | $100,000 | $48.08/hr |
| Median (50th) | $90,000 | $43.27/hr |
| 25th | $80,000 | $38.46/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $70,000 | $33.65/hr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024 (SOC 29-2035).
Salary by metro area
| Metro Area | Median Salary | Hourly | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood | $95,000 | $45.67/hr | UCHealth, SCL Health, HealthONE |
| Colorado Springs | $86,000 | $41.35/hr | Military medical facilities supplement civilian demand |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $84,000 | $40.38/hr | Northern Colorado; UCHealth |
Highest paying: Denver-Aurora-Lakewood leads at $95,000 median. Lowest paying: Fort Collins-Loveland at $84,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Colorado’s cost of living index is 105 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 5% above the national average, which offsets some of the salary advantage.
State income tax: 4.4% flat rate.
| Factor | Colorado | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $90,000 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 105 | 100 |
| State income tax | 4.4% | Varies |
Job market and demand
Colorado’s population growth drives expanding healthcare infrastructure. Denver’s UCHealth and SCL Health (now Intermountain) are the largest employers. The outdoor lifestyle attracts healthcare professionals, creating moderate competition for positions.
Colorado employs approximately 1,800 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Colorado follows this trend.
“I chose Tesla due to the flexibility and support offered during the training, while being able to work full-time. The program exceeded my expectations.”
How to start your MRI career in Colorado
Colorado offers above-median salaries with a moderate cost of living outside Denver. The Front Range corridor (Fort Collins to Colorado Springs) concentrates most healthcare employment.
To become an MRI technologist in Colorado:
- Complete an accredited MRI program. Options include ARRT-pathway programs (require prior radiology credentials) or ARMRIT-pathway programs like Tesla MR Institute (no prior credentials needed, 12-18 months).
- Finish clinical training. Tesla MR Institute has 8+ clinical training sites across Colorado.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Colorado employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Colorado guide.