Charleston vs Hilton Head Island: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Charleston, SC and Hilton Head Island, SC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, SC | Hilton Head Island, SC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,559 | $91,145▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.06 | $43.82▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,299▲ | $67,994 |
| 25th Percentile | $81,083▲ | $78,002 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,592 | $100,982▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,592 | $119,214▲ |
| Total Employed | 170▲ | 6 |
Verdict
Hilton Head Island, SC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Charleston.
The salary gap between Charleston and Hilton Head Island is $1,586 (1.77%). Hilton Head Island's median is -9.11% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $29,293,Hilton Head Island spans $51,220. Hilton Head Island has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced magnetic resonance imaging technologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Hilton Head Island ($99,612 effective) pays 12.30% more than Charleston ($88,706 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Larger job market (170 employed)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Hilton Head Island if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,145/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,214)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,612)
- ✓You prefer the South Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Charleston grew 28.0% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 32.6% growth in Hilton Head Island over the same period.
Charleston, SC
$66,610 (2019) → $85,270 (2025)
Hilton Head Island, SC
$65,440 (2024) → $86,780 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, SC
Hilton Head Island, SC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Charleston or Hilton Head Island?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and Hilton Head Island?
Should I relocate from Charleston to Hilton Head Island as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Charleston vs Hilton Head Island?
Written by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR)
Career Analyst
Carmen has 10 years of experience as an MRI technologist. She specializes in pediatric imaging at a regional hospital. Carmen contributes to various industry publications.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.03% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Carmen Torres, R.T. (R)(MR), a licensed magnetic resonance imaging technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov