If you’re curious about the travel MRI tech salary, you’re not alone. Whether you’re already working in the imaging field or thinking about switching into the travel healthcare lifestyle, it’s important to know how much you can earn and what factors affect your pay.
In this post, we’re breaking down real numbers, location-based pay differences, and everything else you need to know about being a travel MRI tech in 2025. We’ll also cover how to get started, what recruiters are looking for, and how to maximize your take-home pay.
If you’re serious about taking your MRI skills on the road, check out our travel allied health options to see what’s open right now.
Travel MRI Tech Salary: Breaking Down the Numbers
Let’s start with the big question—how much does a travel MRI tech really make? The average travel MRI tech salary in the U.S. sits around $110,000 to $135,000 per year, depending on experience, location, and contract specifics. That translates to roughly $2,600 to $3,300 per week, and some contracts go even higher if you’re working in a high-demand area or filling urgent needs.
Some assignments even advertise weekly pay rates up to $3,700, especially in larger cities or short-staffed hospitals. You can check these numbers against industry data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, which reports that MRI techs in general earn over $80,000 annually, with travel roles paying significantly more due to stipends and bonuses.
What Impacts a Traveling MRI Tech Salary?
Pay isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your traveling MRI tech salary depends on a few key things:
Experience and Credentials
Newer techs may start around the lower end of the pay range. But if you’ve got 5+ years of experience, multiple imaging specialties, or advanced certifications like ARRT (MR), you can command higher pay.
Location and Cost of Living
Big cities like New York, San Francisco, and Seattle tend to offer higher wages—but remember, the cost of living is higher too. On the flip side, you might score better net savings in places like Texas or Wisconsin where your money goes further. Explore our current travel assignments in Texas or see what’s available in Wisconsin.
Contract Details
This is where things get interesting. Your MRI tech travel contracts can include housing stipends, per diem, sign-on bonuses, and completion bonuses. Some contracts may even cover travel reimbursements or licensing fees.
Facility Type
Academic medical centers and large hospitals may offer higher pay for specialized imaging needs, while smaller rural facilities might offer more relaxed work environments but slightly lower pay.
How Much Do Travel MRI Techs Make Compared to Staff Techs?
It’s a fair question—how much do travel MRI techs make vs. their full-time hospital peers?
Travelers tend to earn 20–40% more, mainly because of tax-free stipends and the short-term nature of contracts. A hospital-employed MRI tech might make around $85,000 per year, while a traveler could easily break six figures doing the same job across multiple assignments. That’s why the travel MRI tech salary continues to attract professionals looking for higher pay and flexibility.
So if you’re ready to move and can adapt quickly to new environments, you’re almost guaranteed to make more as a traveler.
What Are the Travel MRI Tech Requirements?
Before you can land a high-paying gig, here’s what you’ll need to qualify:
- ARRT (MR) Certification – This is the gold standard for MRI techs.
- State License(s) – Requirements vary by state. Some are quick and easy; others take weeks.
- 1–2 Years Experience – Most agencies want at least 12 months of recent hospital MRI experience.
- Clean Background Check + Drug Screen – Standard for all travel roles.
Want to explore another imaging path? You might also like our guide to travel echo tech opportunities.
How to Become a Travel MRI Tech
Thinking about making the leap? Here’s a quick overview of how to become a travel MRI tech—and how to set yourself up for a competitive travel MRI tech salary right out of the gate:
- Get Certified: Start with a radiologic technologist program and pursue MRI specialization through ARRT.
- Gain Experience: Work at a hospital or imaging center for 1–2 years to build a solid foundation.
- Work With a Trusted Agency: Not all agencies are created equal—some specialize in placing imaging techs, and others focus more broadly. Look for companies like Junxion that prioritize support and fair pay.
- Get Your Documents in Order: Licenses, immunizations, credentials—all of it needs to be up to date.
- Apply and Interview: Once you’re in the agency system, recruiters will send opportunities your way.
Best Travel MRI Tech Companies to Work With
There are plenty of staffing agencies out there, but finding the best travel MRI tech companies can make or break your experience. Look for ones that:
- Offer transparent pay packages
- Provide licensing and housing support
- Have a solid reputation among healthcare travelers
- Assign you a dedicated recruiter who actually understands your specialty
At Junxion Med Staffing, we take pride in matching our imaging professionals with supportive, competitive contracts that align with your career goals. We’ve been in your shoes—our leadership includes former healthcare travelers—so we don’t cut corners when it comes to support.
Tips to Maximize Your MRI Travel Tech Salary
Even once you’re on the road, there are ways to make sure you’re getting the most out of your paycheck.
Be Flexible With Location
Some of the highest-paying assignments are in places that may not be at the top of your bucket list. But being open to these options can mean shorter waits and higher pay.
Take on Night Shifts or Weekend Coverage
Not everyone wants to work off-hours, but that’s exactly why they pay more. If you’re up for it, these shifts can significantly boost your weekly rate.
Maintain Multiple State Licenses
The more places you’re licensed to work, the more contracts you’ll qualify for—especially during staffing shortages.
Use Your Stipends Wisely
One of the biggest perks of travel healthcare is tax-free housing and meals stipends. If you keep your housing costs low, you’ll pocket more of that stipend.
Need help with forms or credentials? Check out our employee resources hub to stay organized and on track.
Travel MRI Tech vs. MRI Travel Tech: What’s the Difference?
In case you’re wondering—mri travel tech and mri tech travel are used interchangeably in job listings. Both refer to MRI technologists who take short-term contracts in different locations. So whether the posting says mri tech travel or mri travel tech, it’s the same type of role.
Why Junxion Is a Solid Choice for MRI Travelers
Junxion Med Staffing specializes in high-quality placements for imaging professionals. Whether you’re looking for short-term travel MRI contracts or hoping to settle into longer-term opportunities, our recruiters work with you—not just your resume. We’re also constantly expanding our network of radiology tech opportunities, so your next move could already be waiting.
FAQs About the Travel MRI Tech Salary
What is the average travel MRI tech salary?
Most travel MRI techs earn between $2,600 and $3,300 per week, depending on location, experience, and contract details. Annual earnings often fall between $110,000 and $135,000, with some techs earning even more.
How much do traveling MRI techs make compared to full-time staff?
Traveling MRI techs generally make 20–40% more than full-time staff because of stipends, higher hourly rates, and bonuses tied to short-term contracts.
Where do MRI travel techs earn the most?
Top-paying states include Washington, New York, and others. However, actual take-home pay also depends on cost of living, facility demand, and licensing timelines.
What qualifications do you need for MRI tech travel contracts?
You’ll typically need an ARRT (MR) certification, at least 1–2 years of MRI experience, and the appropriate state licenses.
Can I be a travel MRI tech right out of school?
Usually not. Most contracts require at least 12 months of experience before you’re eligible for travel roles.
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