How much do MRI technologists make in Colorado? The median annual salary is $90,000, which is $1,820 above the national median of $88,180. Colorado MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $43.27.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in Colorado 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.
Colorado salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $110,000 | $52.88/hr |
| 75th | $100,000 | $48.08/hr |
| Median (50th) | $90,000 | $43.27/hr |
| 25th | $80,000 | $38.46/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $70,000 | $33.65/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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Denver-Aurora-Lakewood | $95,000 | $45.67/hr | UCHealth, SCL Health, HealthONE |
| Colorado Springs | $86,000 | $41.35/hr | Military medical facilities supplement civilian demand |
| Fort Collins-Loveland | $84,000 | $40.38/hr | Northern Colorado; UCHealth |
Highest paying: Denver-Aurora-Lakewood leads at $95,000 median. Lowest paying: Fort Collins-Loveland at $84,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
Colorado’s cost of living index is 105 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 5% above the national average, which offsets some of the salary advantage.
State income tax: 4.4% flat rate.
| Factor | Colorado | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $90,000 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 105 | 100 |
| State income tax | 4.4% | Varies |
Job market and demand
Colorado’s population growth drives expanding healthcare infrastructure. Denver’s UCHealth and SCL Health (now Intermountain) are the largest employers. The outdoor lifestyle attracts healthcare professionals, creating moderate competition for positions.
Colorado employs approximately 1,800 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and Colorado follows this trend.
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How to start your MRI career in Colorado
Colorado offers above-median salaries with a moderate cost of living outside Denver. The Front Range corridor (Fort Collins to Colorado Springs) concentrates most healthcare employment.
To become an MRI technologist in Colorado:
- 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 Colorado.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. Colorado employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in Colorado guide.
Related Reading
Frequently Asked Questions
The median MRI technologist salary in Colorado is $90,000 per year ($43.27/hour), based on May 2024 BLS data. Salaries range from $70,000 at the 10th percentile to $110,000 at the 90th percentile.
The highest paying metro area in Colorado is Denver-Aurora-Lakewood with a median salary of $95,000. UCHealth, SCL Health, HealthONE.
Colorado's median MRI technologist salary of $90,000 is $1,820 above the national median of $88,180.
Most states, including Colorado, do not require a specific state license for MRI technologists because MRI uses magnetic fields, not ionizing radiation. Employers require national certification through ARRT or ARMRIT.
You can become an MRI technologist in Colorado by completing an accredited MRI program (12-18 months) and passing the ARRT or ARMRIT certification exam. Tesla MR Institute offers a hybrid program with clinical training sites in Colorado, open to career changers without prior radiology credentials.