How Much Does an MRI Cost in Austin Without Insurance? (2026 Guide)

The Short Answer: $264–$800+

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f you're searching "how much does an MRI cost in Austin without insurance," here's what you need to know right now: cash-pay MRI prices in Austin range from $264 to $800+, depending on the body part, the facility, and whether you need contrast dye.

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hat's a huge range — and it means choosing the right provider can save you hundreds of dollars for the exact same scan. Last updated: February 2026

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Austin MRI Prices by Provider (Cash-Pay)

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ere's what Austin's top imaging centers actually charge for common MRI scans:

Radiology Assist — Austin

• MRI Lumbar Spine: $264
• MRI Cervical Spine: $263
• MRI Knee: $279
• MRI Brain: $271
• 📍 711 W 38th St, Central Austin
• View all Radiology Assist pricing →

Texas Direct Medical Care

• MRI (general): $290
• 📍 6507 Jester Blvd, Northwest Austin
• View provider details →

Central Park Imaging

• MRI without contrast: $425
• 📍 1301 W 38th St, Central Austin
• View all Central Park Imaging pricing →

Austin Radiological Association (ARA)

• MRI (various): $400–$800
• 📍 17 imaging centers across Austin
• View provider details →

The takeaway: Radiology Assist consistently offers the lowest cash-pay MRI prices in Austin, often 50-60% less than hospital-based imaging.

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Cash-Pay vs. Insurance vs. Medicaid: How MRI Prices Compare

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nderstanding the pricing landscape helps you make the best decision:

Cash-Pay (Self-Pay)

• Range: $263–$800
• Best price: $263 (Radiology Assist, cervical spine)
• No referral needed at most facilities
• Pay at time of service, no surprise bills

With Insurance

• Range: $500–$3,000+ (before deductible)
• Your out-of-pocket depends entirely on your plan
• If you haven't met your deductible, you may pay the full negotiated rate — which is often higher than cash-pay
• Requires referral from most plans

Medicaid

• Range: $300–$550
• Procedure reference: MRI pricing →
• Requires prior authorization
• Limited facility choices

Pro tip: If your insurance deductible is $3,000+ and you haven't met it, you'll almost certainly save money paying cash at a place like Radiology Assist ($264–$279) rather than going through insurance.

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What Affects MRI Cost in Austin?

1. Body Part

Not all MRIs cost the same. Brain and knee MRIs tend to be on the lower end, while abdominal and cardiac MRIs cost more. Here's the general range from MarketCare procedure data:

• Knee MRI: $279–$800 cash-pay
• Lumbar Spine MRI: $264–$800 cash-pay
• Shoulder MRI: $400–$2,000 cash-pay
• Brain MRI: $271–$800 cash-pay

2. Contrast vs. No Contrast

MRIs with contrast dye (gadolinium) typically cost $50–$200 more than without. Your doctor will specify if contrast is needed.

3. Facility Type

• Independent imaging centers (like Radiology Assist): $263–$425
• Hospital-affiliated centers (like ARA): $400–$800
• Hospital outpatient: $800–$3,000+

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he scan quality and equipment are typically identical — the price difference is pure overhead.

4. Time of Day

Some facilities offer lower rates for off-peak hours. Call and ask.

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How to Get the Cheapest MRI in Austin

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. Compare prices on MarketCare — We list real cash-pay prices from Austin providers so you can compare instantly. 2. Choose an independent imaging center — Facilities like Radiology Assist charge 50–70% less than hospital outpatient departments. 3. Ask about all-inclusive pricing — Make sure the quote includes the radiologist reading fee (it does at Radiology Assist). 4. Check if you need contrast — If your doctor says "with or without," go without first. It's cheaper and often sufficient. 5. Pay at time of service — Most cash-pay facilities offer their best rate when you pay upfront.

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Do I Need a Doctor's Order for an MRI?

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n Texas, yes — you typically need a physician's order for an MRI. But here's the good news: you don't need a specialist referral. Any doctor, including a telehealth provider, can write the order.

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f you don't have a primary care doctor, a cash-pay telehealth visit ($50–$150) can get you the order you need. Browse Austin telehealth options →

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When to Skip the MRI (and When You Can't)

You probably need an MRI if:

• Persistent pain that hasn't improved in 4–6 weeks
• Neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness)
• Your doctor suspects a torn ligament, herniated disc, or tumor
• Pre-surgical planning

You might not need one if:

• Acute injury less than 2 weeks old (give it time)
• General back pain without red flags
• Your doctor hasn't examined you yet

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Compare MRI Prices on MarketCare

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top overpaying for imaging. Search MRI procedures → to compare real cash-pay prices across Austin providers, or browse all imaging providers → to find the best deal near you. Average savings when you compare: $200–$500 per scan.