Medical imaging has developed as one of the most rapidly developing disciplines in contemporary medicine. The MRI technologists and CT technologists are among the most in-demand ones as they are a critical part of the patient diagnosis and treatment.
Although the responsibilities of the two are quite similar, most upcoming healthcare providers are left with the question: Which job has more money? Before making a career choice, it is obligatory to understand the difference in salaries of MRI techs and CT techs.
However, the two careers have similar pay rates, good employment stability, and prospects for promotion in 2025; yet, there are major differences that distinguish the two.
MRI Tech Salary: How Much Do MRI Technologists Earn?
An MRI technologist is a professional who deals with the employment of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to produce detailed images of body organs, tissues, and structures. Since MRI demands extensive training and ability to care about patients, the remuneration of MRI techs is higher than in most other radiologic jobs.
The median annual income of MRI technologists, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS, 2024 data), is approximately $87,000, and the highest 10 per cent of the population makes over $110,000 every year.
MRI technologists earn an average of $41-45 per hour on an hourly basis, which may vary depending on their experience and the place of work.
Salary Breakdown by Work Setting
- Hospitals (General Medical & Surgical): $85,000–$90,000
- Outpatient Care Centres: $92,000+
- Diagnostic Laboratories: $83,000–$87,000
- Physician Offices: $80,000–$85,000
Top States for MRI Tech Salaries
- California: $115,000+ per year
- New York: $105,000+ per year
- Massachusetts: $103,000+ per year
- Washington: $101,000+ per year
- Texas: $95,000+ per year
These figures highlight that MRI techs not only earn strong base salaries but also enjoy significant growth potential. Additionally, many employers provide overtime pay, night-shift differentials, and bonuses, which can push annual earnings even higher.
CT Tech Salary: How Much Do CT Technologists Earn?
A CT technologist works with the computer tomography (CT) scanners, which use X-rays to form cross-sectional images of the body. CT techs are a vital component of healthcare staff who are important in emergency medicine, oncology, and trauma care.
Although salaries of CT technologists are a decade lower than the salaries of MRI techs, they remain highly above the average of allied health professions.
Based on the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS, 2024 data), the median salary of CT technologists amounts to approximately 78,000 annually, and the 10 percent with the highest income earn over 100,000 per year. The hourly wages are normally between 36 and 40 dollars, based on the experience, location and place of work.
Salary Breakdown by Work Setting
- Hospitals: $75,000–$80,000
- Outpatient Centres: $82,000+
- Diagnostic Imaging Labs: $77,000–$81,000
- Speciality Clinics & Physician Offices: $72,000–$76,000
Top States for CT Tech Salaries
- California: $105,000+ per year
- New Jersey: $98,000+ per year
- Illinois: $95,000+ per year
- Florida: $90,000+ per year
- Texas: $88,000+ per year
CT technologists often earn slightly less than MRI technologists, but the gap isn’t drastic. With overtime pay, shift differentials, and the rising demand for CT scans in emergency care, CT tech salaries can reach very competitive levels.
MRI Tech vs CT Tech Salary: Key Differences and Comparison
When comparing MRI tech vs CT tech salary, the numbers show MRI technologists usually earn more on average. However, the difference is influenced by factors such as location, specialisation, and demand in specific healthcare settings.
| Category | MRI Technologist | CT Technologist |
| Median Annual Salary (2025) | $87,000 | $78,000 |
| Top 10% Salary | $110,000+ | $100,000+ |
| Hourly Rate | $41–$45 | $36–$40 |
| Best Paying States: | CA, NY, MA, WA, TX | NJ, IL, FL, TX |
| Work Settings: | Hospitals, outpatient centres, diagnostic labs | Trauma centres, and outpatient imaging |
Overall, MRI techs earn about $8,000–$10,000 more annually than CT techs, but CT technologists often have more opportunities in emergency and trauma departments. Both professions provide stable, rewarding careers with strong earning potential.
Factors That Affect MRI and CT Tech Salaries
While the MRI vs CT tech salary gap is clear, several important factors influence how much an individual earns in these careers.
1. Education and Certification
- MRI technologists often require specialised certification in magnetic resonance imaging after completing a radiologic technology program.
- CT technologists may need certification in computed tomography, especially if working in advanced hospital or trauma settings.
- Professionals with multiple certifications (MRI + CT) can significantly increase their earning potential, sometimes making over $115,000 annually in high-demand areas.
2. Work Experience
- Entry-level MRI or CT techs usually start at around $60,000–$70,000 per year.
- With 5–10 years of experience, salaries typically range from $80,000 to $95,000.
- Senior technologists and lead imaging specialists can make over $100,000 per year with overtime and leadership responsibilities.
3. Geographic Location
Salaries differ greatly by state and even city. For example:
- MRI tech in California: $115,000+
- CT tech in California: $105,000+
- MRI tech in Texas: $95,000
- CT tech in Texas: $88,000
- Urban areas with higher costs of living generally pay more, while rural areas may pay less but often come with hiring incentives.
4. Type of Employer
- Hospitals and trauma centres typically offer higher salaries, especially for CT technologists, due to the high demand for emergency services.
- Outpatient centres and diagnostic labs often pay MRI technologists more, as MRI scans are scheduled and require longer sessions with patients.
- Private clinics and physician offices may offer lower compensation, but they often provide a better work-life balance.
Job Outlook: MRI Tech vs CT Tech Demand in Healthcare
The demand for imaging specialists is rapidly increasing as healthcare relies more on advanced diagnostics. Both careers show strong job security, but each has a unique outlook.
MRI Technologists
- According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics (BLS), employment for MRI technologists is projected to grow 7% from 2022 to 2032, which is faster than the average growth rate for all occupations.
- The ageing population drives growth. The ageing population drives growth, as MRI is crucial in diagnosing neurological disorders, joint injuries, and cancer.
- Outpatient imaging centers are expanding, creating more opportunities for MRI techs with flexible schedules.
CT Technologists
- The outlook for CT technologists is equally strong, with a 6% growth rate projected from 2022 to 2032.
- CT scans are widely used in emergency departments, trauma cases, and oncology treatments.
- Technologists with dual certification in Radiology + CT often have a hiring advantage, as hospitals prefer versatile employees.
Key Takeaway
Both MRI and CT technologists enjoy excellent job security and strong growth opportunities; however, MRI may lead in outpatient and long-term diagnostic roles, while CT may lead in urgent and emergency care demand.
Which Career Pays More: MRI Tech or CT Tech?
When directly comparing MRI tech vs CT tech salary, MRI technologists generally come out ahead. The average annual salary for MRI techs is around $87,000, compared to $78,000 for CT techs. That’s roughly a $9,000 difference per year.
However, the “higher pay” answer isn’t always that simple. CT technologists often work in emergency and trauma centres, where overtime and night-shift pay can significantly boost earnings. In some high-demand hospitals, experienced CT technologists can earn as much as MRI technologists, especially with additional certifications.
Another key factor is career flexibility. MRI is more specialised, meaning salaries are higher, but job openings may be slightly fewer. CT, on the other hand, is widely used in almost every hospital, providing steady demand and easier job placement.
Quick Comparison:
- MRI Techs: Higher base salary, strong demand in outpatient care and diagnostics.
- CT Techs: Slightly lower base salary but more overtime opportunities in hospitals and trauma care.
The best choice depends on whether you value a higher average salary (MRI) or broader employment opportunities (CT).
Choosing Between MRI Tech and CT Tech Careers
Both MRI and CT technologists enjoy rewarding careers with excellent salaries, job stability, and growth opportunities in healthcare. If you’re deciding between the two, consider your career goals:
- Choose MRI technology if you prefer advanced, specialised imaging, patient interaction, and a higher average pay.
- Choose CT tech if you want more widespread job opportunities, a faster-paced hospital environment, and strong earning potential with overtime.
At the end of the day, there is no wrong choice. Both careers are well-paid, in-demand, and essential to modern medicine. Whether you lean toward MRI or CT, you’ll be stepping into a profession that not only offers financial security but also the chance to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives every day.
FAQs
Does MRI or CT get paid more?
MRI technologists typically earn more than CT technologists. The average MRI tech salary is around $87,000 annually, compared to about $78,000 for CT techs.
Which imaging tech makes the most money?
Among imaging roles, MRI technologists usually lead in pay, but nuclear medicine technologists and sonographers in specialised fields can sometimes earn even higher salaries.
What pays more, radiology or MRI?
Radiologists (medical doctors) earn far more, often $250,000+ annually. However, among technologists, MRI generally pays more than CT and other radiologic specialities.
What is the salary of an MRI technician in the USA?
As of 2025, MRI technicians in the U.S. earn an average annual salary of $87,000, with top earners exceeding $110,000 per year in high-demand states.