Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists vs. Registered Nurses: Who Earns More?
Registered Nurses out-earn Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists by $2K a year at the national median, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists land at $95,480 and Registered Nurses at $97,550. The education gap is real: magnetic resonance imaging technologist programs typically require bachelor's degree, while registered nurse programs require bachelor's degree. Top-paying state for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists is District of Columbia ($128,710); for Registered Nurses it's California ($140,270).
Pay by state
States where both occupations have BLS data, sorted by Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists median pay.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2025. Highlighted value is higher in each row.
Common questions
Who earns more, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists or Registered Nurses?
Registered Nurses earn more nationally. The median is $95,480 for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists versus $97,550 for Registered Nurses, a difference of $2K. Per BLS OEWS May 2025.
Which has better job growth, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists or Registered Nurses?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists has the better 10-year outlook at 7.1% projected growth, compared to 4.9% for the other field. Both are from BLS Employment Projections.
Which requires more education, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists or Registered Nurses?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists typically requires bachelor's degree. Registered Nurses requires bachelor's degree. Education requirements vary by employer and state licensing board.
Where do Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists get paid the most?
District of Columbia is the top-paying state for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists at $128,710/year, per BLS OEWS May 2025. Major metro areas within that state typically pay even more than the state average.
How does Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists vs. Registered Nurses pay differ by state?
The gap varies significantly by state. In District of Columbia, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologists earn $128,710 vs. $102,540 for Registered Nurses. See the state comparison table on this page for the full picture.