Mri Cost Comparison
How Much Does a MRI Cost?
An MRI costs $300-$3,500 without insurance depending on the body part and facility. Independent imaging centers charge $300-$700, while hospital-based facilities charge $1,200-$3,500 for the same scan. Brain MRIs are typically the most expensive, while extremity MRIs (knee, shoulder) cost less. Always ask for the cash-pay rate.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan - compare published cash-pay prices near you
No published price for this code yet
We only show prices a hospital has actually published for CPT 70553. We have none for this code that we can show here, so this page shows no price rather than an estimate. The guidance below still applies, and searching by location will show any published prices near you.
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What Is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and structures inside your body without radiation. MRI is especially effective for imaging soft tissues like the brain, spinal cord, joints, and internal organs. The procedure takes 30-60 minutes and you lie inside a large tube-shaped scanner. MRI is one of the most commonly over-priced procedures in healthcare, with hospital prices often much higher than independent imaging centers for the same scan.
How to Save on MRI
Standalone imaging centers charge $300-$700, while hospitals charge $1,200-$3,500 for the same MRI.
Ask for the cash-pay rate before scheduling -- many centers have unpublished self-pay prices below their listed rates.
If your doctor orders the MRI at a hospital, ask for a referral to a freestanding imaging center instead.
Open MRI machines are available for patients with claustrophobia, though image quality may vary.
MRI Cost FAQs
How much does an MRI cost without insurance?
An MRI costs $300-$3,500 without insurance depending on the body part and facility. Independent imaging centers charge $300-$700, while hospital-based facilities charge $1,200-$3,500 for the same scan. Brain MRIs are typically the most expensive, while extremity MRIs (knee, shoulder) cost less. Always ask for the cash-pay rate.
Why do MRI prices vary so much between facilities?
Hospital-based MRIs include facility fees, overhead costs, and higher operational expenses that can make them much more expensive than independent centers. The scan quality is comparable at accredited facilities regardless of price. Independent centers offer lower prices because they specialize in imaging and have lower overhead.
Do I need a doctor's order for an MRI?
Yes, an MRI typically requires a physician's order. However, some direct-access imaging centers allow self-referral for certain studies. Your primary care doctor or specialist can write the order, and you can then choose where to have the scan performed.
Is MRI or CT scan better?
MRI provides better detail for soft tissues (brain, joints, muscles, organs) while CT scans are better for bones and detecting acute conditions like blood clots. MRI uses no radiation, making it safer for repeated scans. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate scan based on what they need to evaluate.
Compare Other Procedure Costs
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Pricing information is based on publicly reported data and may not reflect your actual costs.
Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical decisions. Prices shown are estimates for self-pay patients and may vary by provider, location, and individual circumstances.
Find a Fair Price for Your MRI
Compare the cash-pay prices published near you and find the lowest price for your mri