Charlotte vs Wake Forest: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Charlotte, NC and Wake Forest, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Charlotte, NC | Wake Forest, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $95,504▲ | $86,300 |
| Hourly Rate | $45.92▲ | $41.49 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $69,519▲ | $65,464 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,331▲ | $73,111 |
| 75th Percentile | $102,152▲ | $97,454 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,876 | $116,990▲ |
| Total Employed | 280▲ | 9 |
Verdict
Charlotte, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wake Forest.
The salary gap between Charlotte and Wake Forest is $9,204 (10.67%). 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,Wake Forest spans $51,526. Wake Forest 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, Charlotte ($98,106 effective) pays 6.40% more than Wake Forest ($92,201 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)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $98,106)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Wake Forest if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,990)
- ✓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 17.2% growth in Wake Forest over the same period.
Charlotte, NC
$70,810 (2019) → $90,930 (2025)
Wake Forest, NC
$70,134 (2024) → $82,167 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Charlotte, NC
Wake Forest, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Charlotte or Wake Forest?
What is the hourly rate difference between Charlotte and Wake Forest?
Should I relocate from Charlotte to Wake Forest as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Charlotte vs Wake Forest?
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