How Much Does Medical Imaging Cost?
This guide covers typical US costs for common medical imaging, what affects the bill, and how to compare provider quotes.
Common jobs and what they cost
| Job | What it involves | Typical range |
|---|---|---|
| Basic X-ray | One area, standard views | $100 - $500 |
| Ultrasound | Routine diagnostic exam | $200 - $1,000 |
| CT scan | One body area, without contrast | $300 - $2,000 |
| MRI | One body area, standard scan | $500 - $3,000 |
Ranges are typical, not quotes - the price for your job depends on scope and location, so always confirm with the provider.
What moves the price
The imaging method and body area are major cost drivers. Contrast material, multiple views or regions, specialized protocols, and sedation can add charges. Hospital outpatient departments often cost more than independent imaging centers, while location and the provider's equipment also affect rates.
Insurance changes what you owe: deductibles, copays, network status, and prior authorization all matter. A quoted scan price may not include the radiologist's interpretation, facility fee, or contrast, so check what is included.
How to keep the cost down
Ask your clinician whether an independent imaging center is appropriate, then compare the full self-pay price and insurance estimate across in-network options. Confirm the scan, contrast, interpretation, and any facility fees are included, and ask about cash-pay discounts or payment plans.
Quotes from checked, reviewed providers on Reedleys are easier to compare because you can assess provider details alongside the stated price.
Price questions, answered
Most diagnostic imaging requires an order from a licensed clinician, and insurers may require one for coverage. Ask the imaging center what documentation it needs before scheduling.
Quotes may cover different services, such as the scan alone versus the scan plus facility and radiologist fees. Compare the exact test, body area, contrast, and billing components.
Many plans cover medically necessary imaging, but network rules, prior authorization, and deductibles can change your share. Verify coverage with both your insurer and the imaging provider.
Recognized Medical Imaging businesses
Dallas mammography provider offering 3D breast screening, diagnostic mammograms, and AI-enhanced imaging.
Charlotte Radiology Pineville provides outpatient diagnostic imaging and breast health services in Charlotte.
Chicago walk-in medical center offering urgent care, specialties, on-site MRI, and pharmacy services.
Diagnostic imaging center offering MRI, X-rays, ultrasound and other studies in Chicago.
Women's diagnostic imaging center in New York City offering ultrasound, genetics, and pregnancy consultations.
Outpatient ultrasound facility offering cardiac, general, pregnancy, and vascular diagnostic scans in El Paso.
Open MRI center in Louisville offering magnetic resonance imaging and whole-body scans.
Thermographic breast screening and infrared thermal imaging in Raleigh.
Ultrasound imaging and screening services in Arlington, Texas, including diagnostic, preventative, pregnancy, and elective scans.
A Phoenix diagnostic imaging provider offering scans, screenings, and access to imaging results through patient portals.