Charlotte vs Hickory: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Charlotte, NC and Hickory, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Hickory, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,504▲ | $90,462 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.92▲ | $43.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,519▲ | $66,337 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,331▲ | $82,774 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,152▲ | $98,161 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,876 | $111,993▲ |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 30 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Hickory.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Hickory is $5,042 (5.57%). Charlotte's median is -4.77% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Charlotte spans $38,357,Hickory spans $45,656. Hickory 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, Hickory ($102,233 effective) pays 4.21% more than Charlotte ($98,106 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Charlotte if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($95,504/year)
- ✓Larger job market (280 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Hickory if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($111,993)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $102,233)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries in Charlotte grew 28.4% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 27.1% growth in Hickory over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$70,810 (2019) → $90,930 (2025)
Hickory, NC
$67,740 (2020) → $86,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Hickory, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Charlotte or Hickory?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charlotte and Hickory?
Should I relocate from Charlotte to Hickory as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
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Related Comparisons
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