How much do MRI technologists make in Tennessee? The median annual salary is $78,000, which is $10,180 below the national median of $88,180. Tennessee MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $37.5. With no state income tax, Tennessee offers higher take-home pay than the raw salary suggests.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Tennessee 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.
Tennessee salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $96,000 | $46.15/hr |
| 75th | $87,000 | $41.83/hr |
| Median (50th) | $78,000 | $37.5/hr |
| 25th | $68,000 | $32.69/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $58,000 | $27.88/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin | $84,000 | $40.38/hr | Healthcare capital of the US; HCA, Vanderbilt |
| Memphis | $76,000 | $36.54/hr | St. Jude, Methodist, Regional One |
| Knoxville | $74,000 | $35.58/hr | UT Medical Center, Covenant Health |
Highest paying: Nashville-Davidson-Murfreesboro-Franklin leads at $84,000 median. Lowest paying: Knoxville at $74,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Tennessee’s cost of living index is 90 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 10% below the national average, stretching your salary further.
State income tax: None (on wages). This is a significant advantage — MRI techs in states with 5-6% income tax rates effectively lose $4,000-$5,000 annually on the same salary.
| Factor | Tennessee | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $78,000 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 90 | 100 |
| State income tax | None | Varies |
Job market and demand
Nashville is the corporate headquarters of HCA Healthcare (the nation’s largest for-profit hospital operator), Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and numerous other healthcare companies. Tennessee is sometimes called the healthcare capital of America.
Tennessee employs approximately 2,400 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Tennessee follows this trend.
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How to start your MRI career in Tennessee
No state income tax on wages. Nashville’s concentration of healthcare corporate headquarters creates strong demand and competitive pay. Combined with low cost of living, Tennessee offers excellent purchasing power.
To become an MRI technologist in Tennessee:
- 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 10+ clinical training sites across Tennessee.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Tennessee employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Tennessee guide.