How much do MRI technologists make in Washington? The median annual salary is $114,430, which is $26,250 above the national median of $88,180. Washington MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $55.02. With no state income tax, Washington offers higher take-home pay than the raw salary suggests.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Washington 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.
Washington salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $148,600 | $71.44/hr |
| 75th | $130,400 | $62.69/hr |
| Median (50th) | $114,430 | $55.02/hr |
| 25th | $101,480 | $48.79/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $79,190 | $38.07/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue | $125,390 | $60.29/hr | UW Medicine, Swedish, Virginia Mason Franciscan |
| Olympia-Lacey-Tumwater | $118,690 | $57.06/hr | State capital region |
| Spokane-Spokane Valley | $104,060 | $50.03/hr | Eastern WA hub with lower COL |
| Kennewick-Richland | $107,860 | $51.86/hr | Tri-Cities area |
Highest paying: Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue leads at $125,390 median. Lowest paying: Kennewick-Richland at $107,860.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Washington’s cost of living index is 115 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 15% above the national average, which offsets some of the salary advantage.
State income tax: None. 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 | Washington | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $114,430 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 115 | 100 |
| State income tax | None | Varies |
Job market and demand
Washington’s healthcare sector is anchored by large systems including UW Medicine, Providence, and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Seattle’s tech-driven economy supports premium healthcare compensation.
Washington employs approximately 2,600 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Washington follows this trend.
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How to start your MRI career in Washington
No state income tax combined with high salaries makes Washington one of the best-value states for MRI technologists. Eastern Washington (Spokane) offers strong pay with significantly lower housing costs than Seattle.
To become an MRI technologist in Washington:
- 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 Washington.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Washington employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Washington guide.