Charleston vs South Charleston: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Charleston, WV and South Charleston, WV. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charleston, WV | South Charleston, WV |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $85,410▲ | $83,096 |
| Hourly Rate | $41.07▲ | $39.95 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $62,094 | $63,267▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $72,161▲ | $71,728 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,724▲ | $88,386 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $110,229▲ | $101,701 |
| Total Employed | 10▲ | 5 |
Verdict
Charleston, WV offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to South Charleston.
The salary gap between Charleston and South Charleston is $2,314 (2.78%). Charleston's median is -14.83% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charleston spans $48,135,South Charleston spans $38,434. Charleston has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Charleston ($98,740 effective) pays 2.78% more than South Charleston ($96,065 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charleston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($85,410/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($110,229)
- ✓Larger job market (10 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,740)
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Choose South Charleston if…
- ✓You prefer the West Virginia area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Charleston grew 49.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 49.2% growth in South Charleston over the same period.
Charleston, WV
$54,509 (2024) → $81,320 (2025)
South Charleston, WV
$53,031 (2024) → $79,116 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charleston, WV
South Charleston, WV
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Charleston or South Charleston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charleston and South Charleston?
Should I relocate from Charleston to South Charleston as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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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