Wake Forest vs Winston: Magnetic Resonance Imaging Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare magnetic resonance imaging technologist salaries between Wake Forest, NC and Winston, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Wake Forest, NC | Winston, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $86,300 | $91,240▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $41.49 | $43.87▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,464 | $80,957▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $73,111 | $83,457▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $97,454 | $102,961▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $116,990▲ | $110,250 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 130▲ |
Verdict
Winston, NC offers better overall compensation for magnetic resonance imaging technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Wake Forest.
The salary gap between Wake Forest and Winston is $4,940 (5.72%). Winston's median is -9.02% compared to the US national median of $100,283.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Wake Forest spans $51,526,Winston spans $29,293. Wake Forest 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, Winston ($99,128 effective) pays 7.51% 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 Wake Forest if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($116,990)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Winston if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($91,240/year)
- ✓Larger job market (130 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $99,128)
- ✓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 Wake Forest grew 17.2% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 18.4% growth in Winston over the same period.
Wake Forest, NC
$70,134 (2024) → $82,167 (2025)
Winston, NC
$73,400 (2019) → $86,870 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Wake Forest, NC
Winston, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays magnetic resonance imaging technologists more: Wake Forest or Winston?
What is the hourly rate difference between Wake Forest and Winston?
Should I relocate from Wake Forest to Winston as a magnetic resonance imaging technologist?
What do entry-level magnetic resonance imaging technologists earn in Wake Forest vs Winston?
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