How much do MRI technologists make in Virginia? The median annual salary is $90,000, which is $1,820 above the national median of $88,180. Virginia MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $43.27.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Virginia 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.
Virginia salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $108,000 | $51.92/hr |
| 75th | $100,000 | $48.08/hr |
| Median (50th) | $90,000 | $43.27/hr |
| 25th | $78,000 | $37.5/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $66,000 | $31.73/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Virginia/DC suburbs | $99,910 | $48.03/hr | Inova Health System; proximity to DC drives wages |
| Richmond | $86,000 | $41.35/hr | VCU Health, HCA Virginia |
| Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News | $80,000 | $38.46/hr | Hampton Roads; military medical facilities |
Highest paying: Northern Virginia/DC suburbs leads at $99,910 median. Lowest paying: Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News at $80,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Virginia’s cost of living index is 103 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 3% above the national average, which offsets some of the salary advantage.
State income tax: 2.0%-5.75% progressive.
| Factor | Virginia | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $90,000 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 103 | 100 |
| State income tax | 2.0%-5.75% | Varies |
Job market and demand
Virginia’s healthcare market splits between the high-paying Northern Virginia/DC corridor and the more moderate Hampton Roads and Richmond markets. Inova Health System in NOVA is one of the region’s largest employers.
Virginia employs approximately 2,800 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Virginia follows this trend.
“The hands-on training allowed me to gain valuable experience. I felt well-equipped to handle various scenarios in the field.”
How to start your MRI career in Virginia
Northern Virginia pays significantly more than other regions due to the DC metro influence. The state has a wide salary range reflecting this geographic divide.
To become an MRI technologist in Virginia:
- 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 15+ clinical training sites across Virginia.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Virginia employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Virginia guide.