Getting an MRI in 2025? You’re not alone—and if you’ve got health insurance, you’re probably wondering what damage it’ll do to your wallet. Spoiler: it’s not a flat-rate situation. The price tag with insurance can swing wildly from $50 to $1,000 depending on your plan, location, and where you go.
What is the typical MRI cost with insurance in 2025?
The average cost of an MRI with insurance in 2025 is usually between $50 and $1,000. The cost depends on several factors. These include your health plan, deductible, location, and whether the imaging facility is in-network or out-of-network. Costs may rise if you use contrast or if you haven’t met your deductible.
Let’s unpack the chaos—and help you walk into that scan room with full confidence and no nasty billing surprises.
How Insurance Impacts MRI Costs in 2025
MRI prices look very different when insurance is in the picture. A scan that might cost an uninsured person up to $12,000 could cost you a few hundred bucks instead.
The Quick Cost Range: $50 to $1,000 (Yes, Really)
That’s the reality: one patient might pay $75, while another pays $800. This depends on their deductible, copay, coinsurance, and if the facility is in-network.
What You’re Actually Paying For With Insurance
Let’s break it down:
- Deductible: Amount you must pay before insurance kicks in
- Copay: A fixed amount like $100 due at the time of service
- Coinsurance: The percentage you owe (e.g., 20%) after hitting your deductible
These three are why MRI cost with insurance still varies so much.
Deductibles: The Big Wallet Gatekeeper
If your deductible is $1,000 and you’ve only spent $100 this year, that next $900 MRI is on you.
Fair Health confirms that even with insurance, high deductibles can cause sticker shock.
Copays Can Range From $0 to $500
Copays vary wildly depending on your insurance provider:
UnitedHealthcare lists MRI copays around $215 for some Medicare Advantage plans. Other providers, like Aetna or BCBS, have plans that range from $50 to $500 per scan.
Coinsurance: The Percentage Play
Coinsurance typically ranges from 10% to 50%. So, if your scan costs $1,500 and your share is 20%, you’re paying $300.
Use tools like Aetna’s estimator to get a ballpark estimate before you go.
MRI Cost with Insurance — What the Major Providers Are Charging
BlueCross BlueShield: High Variation by Plan
From $0 copays to $150 + 20% coinsurance, depending on your PPO or HMO structure.
Aetna: Copays vs. Coinsurance
Basic plans may offer $50 copays, while more premium options shift into 20% coinsurance territory.
UnitedHealthcare: Medicare & Beyond
Standard Medicare Advantage plans often ask for $215, but some offer $0 copays depending on your tier.
Employer-Sponsored Plans — Wildcards in the Cost Game
Surest Enhanced or UHC Enhanced? Expect a range from $75 to $500 (in-network) to $1,500 (out-of-network). The MRI cost with insurance here is plan-specific—always double-check.
Location, Location, Wallet Drain
The cost of living hits again—this time, in radiology.
Cheapest States:
- Alabama, Pennsylvania: $350–$400
- Florida, Idaho: $400–$500
Mid-Range:
- Texas, Illinois, Virginia: $500–$700 (imaging centers)
- Over $1,500 (hospitals)
Most Expensive:
- Alaska: Over $3,000 depending on facility, per AHI
Imaging Center vs. Hospital — Huge Price Difference
Did you know hospital scans cost about $1,071 more than scans at imaging centers?
Facility fees alone can account for 30% of your total cost. That’s a major factor in your MRI cost with insurance.
📍 Source: Fox Valley Imaging
Medicare Coverage for MRIs in 2025
If you’re on Medicare Part B:
- Deductible: $257/year
- After deductible: Pay 20% of approved cost
- Average out-of-pocket: ~$17, depending on facility and region
💡 Learn more at Medical News Today
Medicaid and MRI Scans
Coverage varies by state. Most Medicaid plans include MRIs if deemed medically necessary—but pre-approvals may apply. Cost? Usually very low or even $0.
MRI With Contrast — A Hidden Upcharge
If your MRI needs contrast, that’s an additional $100–$300. While often covered, some insurance requires pre-authorization.
Always confirm ahead of time to avoid last-minute denials.
3 Smart Ways to Lower Your MRI Cost With Insurance
1. Use a Cost Estimator Tool
Use your insurer’s estimator (like Aetna’s) to preview your costs.
2. Stay In-Network
In-network = lower rates + your expenses count toward your annual out-of-pocket max.
3. Shop the Local Market
Call different imaging centers in your area. You might find a $500 difference just across town.
If you’re also curious about imaging costs without insurance, check out our guide on the cost of a CT scan without insurance — it breaks down everything you need to know, including how to find the best deals.
Watch for Prior Authorization Requirements
Some insurers demand prior approval for MRIs. Skip this step and you risk the scan being fully denied. Always call your provider before scheduling.
2025 MRI Cost Table Snapshot (with Insurance)
| Factor | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Deductible (Annual) | $150 – $2,800 |
| Copay (In-Network) | $0 – $500 |
| Coinsurance (After Deductible) | 10% – 50% |
| Total Cost (w/Insurance) | $50 – $1,000 |
| Hospital Facility Fee | Up to $1,000+ |
| Contrast Agent (Add-On) | $100 – $300 |
Final Thoughts: Navigating MRI Cost With Insurance in 2025
Here’s the big reveal: there is no universal price tag. MRI cost with insurance depends on where you live, what your plan covers, the facility you choose, and whether contrast or pre-authorization is involved.
A little planning can save you hundreds. Always ask for a breakdown, check your coverage, and explore multiple facilities.
