Imaging

How Much Does an MRI Cost in Texas Without Insurance? (2025)

June 2025 · 4 min read

Texas has one of the most competitive healthcare markets in the country, with major systems like Baylor Scott & White, HCA Houston Healthcare, Methodist, and CHRISTUS competing alongside hundreds of independent imaging centers. Cash pay MRI prices vary enormously — comparison shopping can save $500–$2,000 on the same scan.

What does an MRI cost in Texas?

Cash pay MRI prices across Texas:

• Knee MRI (CPT 73721): $199 – $2,500 • Lower Back MRI (CPT 72148): $250 – $3,000 • Brain MRI with contrast (CPT 70553): $400 – $4,500 • Shoulder MRI (CPT 73221): $199 – $2,000

Independent imaging centers in Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio frequently offer MRIs under $400. Hospital outpatient departments at Baylor, HCA, and CHRISTUS can charge 5–10x more.

Dallas/Fort Worth MRI prices

DFW has dozens of independent imaging centers competing for self-pay patients. Baylor Scott & White publishes detailed cash prices across their Texas network. Methodist Health System and Texas Health Resources also publish prices.

Independent centers in Plano, Irving, Arlington, and Fort Worth often charge $250–$600 for common MRIs — a fraction of hospital rates.

Houston MRI prices

Houston's massive medical market includes the Texas Medical Center (the largest in the world) plus hundreds of independent facilities. HCA Houston Healthcare, Memorial Hermann, and Houston Methodist all publish cash prices.

For self-pay patients, independent imaging centers in suburbs like Sugar Land, The Woodlands, Katy, and Pearland often offer the best rates.

Austin and San Antonio

Austin's fast-growing healthcare market includes Ascension Seton, St. David's (HCA), and Baylor Scott & White alongside growing independent options. San Antonio's major systems include University Health, Methodist Healthcare, and Baptist Health System.

Both cities have independent imaging centers offering competitive cash prices for self-pay patients.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a knee MRI cost in Texas without insurance?

Knee MRI cash prices in Texas range from $199 at independent imaging centers to $2,500+ at hospital outpatient departments. Major cities have the most options and competition.

Where is the cheapest MRI in Houston?

Independent imaging centers in Houston suburbs like Sugar Land, Katy, and The Woodlands typically offer the lowest MRI prices in the Houston area. Use Prevu Med to compare current cash prices.

Does Baylor Scott & White publish cash prices?

Yes — Baylor Scott & White publishes machine-readable price files for their Texas hospitals as required by federal law. Prevu Med aggregates these into an easy comparison tool.

Compare Real Prices Near You

See actual cash pay prices from providers nationwide for Knee MRI.

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