Matthews vs Raleigh: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Matthews, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Matthews, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,526 | $87,206▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.60 | $41.93▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $63,475▲ | $52,074 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,525 | $75,979▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $93,491 | $95,934▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $109,278▲ | $102,656 |
| Total Employed | 8 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Matthews.
The salary gap between Matthews and Raleigh is $680 (0.79%). Raleigh's median is -13.04% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Matthews spans $45,803,Raleigh spans $50,582. Raleigh 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, Matthews ($92,442 effective) pays 4.05% 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 Matthews if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($109,278)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $92,442)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,206/year)
- ✓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 Matthews grew 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 22.8% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Matthews, NC
$70,318 (2024) → $82,382 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$67,610 (2019) → $83,030 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Matthews, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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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