As healthcare organizations navigate workforce shortages across clinical roles, one segment is seeing strong growth: imaging tech travelers. Despite an overall contraction in the allied health staffing market, CT and MRI techs are in high demand across the country—particularly in diagnostic-heavy regions and underserved rural areas.
At HWL, we’re tracking the shifts in supply, demand, and compensation—helping clients proactively plan for the imaging workforce needs of 2025 and beyond.
Rising Demand in Imaging Services
Several factors are converging to drive this surge in demand for CT and MRI techs:
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An aging population with chronic conditions that require ongoing diagnostic imaging
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Increased use of CT and MRI in trauma and emergency care, driving 24/7 staffing needs
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Imaging as a revenue-generating service line, critical to hospital financial performance
Facilities are prioritizing imaging coverage not only to support patient care, but to protect one of their most profitable clinical departments.
Key Market Trends for CT and MRI Travelers
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High-demand states for CT techs: Florida, Arizona, Massachusetts, New York, and Pennsylvania
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MRI demand hotspots: Academic medical centers and orthopedic/neuro imaging centers in California, New York, and Illinois
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Rural and critical access hospitals are increasingly relying on contingent labor to fill persistent imaging gaps
Average Travel Pay & Bill Rates:
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CT Tech Pay Rate: $85–$95/hour
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CT Tech Bill Rate: $130–$150/hour
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MRI Tech Pay Rate: $90–$105/hour
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MRI Tech Bill Rate: $140–$160/hour
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Premium assignments can offer $100+/hour to attract experienced techs
What Attracts Top Imaging Talent?
Hospitals and health systems competing for a limited pool of skilled techs are finding success with:
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Faster credentialing: ARRT certification and state-specific licenses can delay onboarding—streamlining this process is essential
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Modern technology: Facilities with updated imaging equipment and PACS systems are more attractive to experienced travelers
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Shift flexibility: Offering 4x10s, weekends, or night shifts can appeal to techs seeking better work-life balance
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Housing and support: Assistance with relocation, travel, or stipends continues to be a major draw
The HWL Advantage
At HWL, we support healthcare organizations with tailored workforce solutions that align with both clinical and operational goals. From pay benchmarking to VMS technology and turnkey vendor management, our team delivers the tools and expertise needed to secure high-quality imaging talent.
Need help staffing your imaging departments for 2025? Let’s build a smarter, scalable strategy together.