MRI Technologist Salary in Texas
Are you curious how much an Xray tech earns in Texas, especially when compared to MRI technologist roles? As of 2026, MRI technologists in Houston, Texas, can earn up to $133,000[1] annually, showcasing the lucrative potential in this field. However, if you’re considering a career as an Xray tech, understanding these salary differences is essential.
In this article, we’ll break down what you can expect to earn as an Xray tech, exploring regional data and industry trends. This information is crucial for your career planning, helping you make informed decisions. As demand for rad tech programs continues to grow, knowing your worth can set you on the path to success.
Explore further to understand how location and other key factors influence salary and shape your overall earning potential.
Salary Overview
The median annual salary for X-ray technologists in the U.S. is $77,660 per year, which equates to about $37.34 per hour[5]. While specific state-level data for standard X-ray tech positions in Texas is unavailable, several key insights can be drawn from available data in the region.
In Dallas, travel radiology techs earn an average weekly pay of $1,819, translating to approximately $94,588 to $95,992 annually[6]. Travel positions typically offer premium compensation, making these figures potentially higher than standard permanent roles.
Specialized roles, such as MRI Technologists at institutions like the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, can command salaries ranging from $89,000 to $133,000, with a midpoint of $111,000[7].
For more insights on rad tech careers, visit our career guide.
Geographic Analysis: Texas
- Dallas
Average Weekly Travel Pay: $1,819[6]
- Houston
MRI Technologist at MD Anderson: $89,000 to $133,000[7]
The cost of living varies across Texas cities; hence, salary needs may differ. Dallas and Houston represent two metropolitan areas where tech salaries appear competitive within specialized fields.
Factors Affecting Salary
1. Experience Level
Entry-level MRI techs typically earn between $60,000–$70,000 annually. Mid-career professionals move into the $80,000–$95,000 range, and experienced techs with 10+ years can exceed $100,000 [9][12]. Experience compounds faster when combined with additional certifications.
2. Certifications and Credentials
ARRT certification is the baseline most employers require. Techs with dual certifications — for example both MRI and CT — command noticeably higher pay. Advanced credentials like cardiac MRI or pediatric MRI specializations can push salaries toward the top 10% bracket of $121,420 or more [8][10].
3. Work Setting and Employer Type
Outpatient imaging centers often pay higher hourly wages than hospitals, though hospitals typically offer better benefits and job stability. Federal government positions pay a median of $93,970. Travel MRI technologists earn 20–40% more than permanent staff, with some earning over $2,400 per week [9][12].
4. Shift Differentials
Night shifts, weekends, and holidays typically add $2–$5 per hour to base pay. For a full-time tech working consistent evening or weekend shifts, this can add $4,000–$10,000 to annual income [12].
5. Education Level
Most MRI techs hold an associate degree, which is the minimum requirement. However, techs with a bachelor’s degree in radiologic or imaging sciences tend to earn approximately 38% more in median weekly earnings compared to those with two-year degrees [8][10].
6. Specialty and Scan Complexity
Techs who can perform complex or specialized scans — such as cardiac MRI, fetal MRI, or spectroscopy — are in higher demand and command premium pay. Employers increasingly pay bonuses or higher base rates for multi-modality competency [10][12].
Conclusion
Recapping the current landscape for Xray tech salaries in Texas, it’s evident that while specific state-level data is lacking, regional insights provide valuable context. In Dallas, travel radiology techs can earn an annual salary of approximately $94,588[2]. MRI technologists in Houston have a salary range between $89,000 and $133,000[3]. However, these figures might differ for traditional Xray tech roles.
Main takeaways:
* Average salary: $77,660[4]
* Top-paying opportunities in cities like Dallas and Houston
* Job type and location significantly impact earnings
* Growth outlook: Projected demand due to workforce shortages
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the average Xray tech salary in Texas in 2026?
While specific Texas state-level data is not publicly available, national averages offer some insight. The median annual salary is $77,660[4].
Q2: How much does an entry-level Xray tech make in Texas?
Entry-level Xray techs nationally start at $52,360[4]. Texas figures may vary due to regional differences in cost of living and demand.
Q3: Is Xray tech salary higher in Texas or Arkansas?
While Texas lacks specific data, it’s known that coastal and Pacific regions surpass southern states in tech salaries. For targeted insights, compare with our top-paying healthcare specializations in 2026.
Q4: Do travel Xray techs make more than staff Xray techs?
Travel Xray techs often command higher pay due to premium rates, such as the $94,588[2] in Dallas compared to stationary roles.
Sources
[1] MD Anderson Cancer Center. www.jobs.mdanderson.org/search/jobdetails/mri-technologist/b88f4860-cffb-4a34-a177-0b865147ba80
[2] Fusion Medical Staffing via ConnectedHealth.com. www.connectedhealth.com
[3] MD Anderson Cancer Center via ZipRecruiter, 2026. www.ziprecruiter.com
[4] Bureau of Labor Statistics, May 2024. www.bls.gov
[5] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Radiologic Technologists. www.bls.gov
[6] Dallas Travel Radiology Tech Weekly Pay, February 24, 2026.
[7] Houston MRI Technologist Salary, MD Anderson, January 27, 2026.
[8] U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Radiologic and MRI Technologists https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/radiologic-technologists.htm
[9] ZipRecruiter — MRI Technologist Salary by State https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/What-Is-the-Average-MRI-Technologist-Salary-by-State
[10] Vivian Health — Average MRI Technologist Salary https://www.vivian.com/allied-health/mri-tech/salary/
[11] Salary.com — MRI Technologist I Salary Benchmark https://www.salary.com/research/salary/benchmark/mri-technologist-i-salary
[12] Tallo — MRI Technologists Salary Guide https://tallo.com/careers/discovery/mri-technologists-salary/