How much do MRI technologists make in Minnesota? The median annual salary is $90,000, which is $1,820 above the national median of $88,180. Minnesota MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $43.27.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Minnesota 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.
Minnesota salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $105,000 | $50.48/hr |
| 75th | $98,000 | $47.12/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington | $94,000 | $45.19/hr | Mayo Clinic, Allina Health, HealthPartners |
| Rochester | $92,000 | $44.23/hr | Mayo Clinic headquarters; world-class imaging |
| Duluth-Superior | $82,000 | $39.42/hr | Essentia Health, St. Luke’s |
Highest paying: Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington leads at $94,000 median. Lowest paying: Duluth-Superior at $82,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Minnesota’s cost of living index is 98 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 2% below the national average, stretching your salary further.
State income tax: 5.35%-9.85% progressive.
| Factor | Minnesota | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $90,000 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 98 | 100 |
| State income tax | 5.35%-9.85% | Varies |
Job market and demand
Minnesota is home to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, one of the world’s premier medical institutions. The Twin Cities metro has multiple competing health systems creating strong demand.
Minnesota employs approximately 2,200 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Minnesota 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 Minnesota
Working at Mayo Clinic in Rochester carries prestige and strong benefits but may not offer the highest raw salary. The Twin Cities offer the best combination of pay and career options in the state.
To become an MRI technologist in Minnesota:
- 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 6+ clinical training sites across Minnesota.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Minnesota employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Minnesota guide.