Durham vs Raleigh: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Durham, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Durham, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $90,198▲ | $87,206 |
| Hourly Rate | $43.37▲ | $41.93 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $58,829▲ | $52,074 |
| 25th Percentile | $76,981▲ | $75,979 |
| 75th Percentile | $101,424▲ | $95,934 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $129,008▲ | $102,656 |
| Total Employed | 67 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Durham, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Raleigh.
The salary gap between Durham and Raleigh is $2,992 (3.43%). Durham's median is -10.06% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Durham spans $70,179,Raleigh spans $50,582. Durham 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, Durham ($96,365 effective) pays 8.47% more than Raleigh ($88,843 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Durham if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,198/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($129,008)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,365)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓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 Durham grew 25.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 22.8% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Durham, NC
$68,570 (2019) → $85,878 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$67,610 (2019) → $83,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Durham, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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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