Raleigh vs Wilmington: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Raleigh, NC and Wilmington, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Raleigh, NC | Wilmington, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,206 | $87,858▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.93 | $42.24▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $52,074 | $80,190▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,979 | $85,200▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $95,934 | $105,240▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $102,656 | $105,240▲ |
| Total Employed | 130▲ | 70 |
Verdict
Wilmington, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Raleigh.
The salary gap between Raleigh and Wilmington is $652 (0.75%). Wilmington's median is -12.39% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Raleigh spans $50,582,Wilmington spans $25,050. Raleigh 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, Wilmington ($91,118 effective) pays 2.56% 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 Raleigh if…
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Wilmington if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($87,858/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($105,240)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $91,118)
- ✓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 Raleigh grew 22.8% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 7.5% growth in Wilmington over the same period.
Raleigh, NC
$67,610 (2019) → $83,030 (2025)
Wilmington, NC
$77,840 (2023) → $83,650 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Raleigh, NC
Wilmington, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Raleigh or Wilmington?
What is the hourly rate difference between Raleigh and Wilmington?
Should I relocate from Raleigh to Wilmington as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Raleigh vs Wilmington?
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