Durham vs Gastonia: Radiologic Technologist and Technician Salary (2026)
Compare radiologic technologist and technician salaries between Durham, NC and Gastonia, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Durham, NC | Gastonia, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $84,685▲ | $81,354 |
| Hourly Rate | $40.72▲ | $39.12 |
| Entry Level (P10) | $67,112▲ | $57,542 |
| 25th Percentile | $68,649▲ | $65,789 |
| 75th Percentile | $107,659▲ | $99,929 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $107,764 | $119,000▲ |
| Total Employed | 780▲ | 16 |
Verdict
Durham, NC offers better overall compensation for radiologic technologists and technicians, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Gastonia.
The salary gap between Durham and Gastonia is $3,331 (4.09%). Durham's median is +0.40% compared to the US national median of $84,348.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Durham spans $40,652,Gastonia spans $61,458. Gastonia has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologic technologist and technicians.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Gastonia ($86,917 effective) pays 0.14% more than Durham ($86,792 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 ($84,685/year)
- ✓Larger job market (780 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Gastonia if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($119,000)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $86,917)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologic technologist and technician salaries in Durham grew 27.2% from 2019 to 2025, compared to 29.1% growth in Gastonia over the same period.
Durham, NC
$63,230 (2019) → $80,430 (2025)
Gastonia, NC
$59,854 (2024) → $77,267 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Durham, NC
Gastonia, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays radiologic technologist and technicians more: Durham or Gastonia?
What is the hourly rate difference between Durham and Gastonia?
Should I relocate from Durham to Gastonia as a radiologic technologist and technician?
What do entry-level radiologic technologist and technicians earn in Durham vs Gastonia?
Related Comparisons
Written by Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM)
Career Analyst
Jordan Lee has over 10 years of experience in radiologic technology. They specialize in mammography and work in an outpatient imaging center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.29% 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 Jordan Lee, RT(R), RT(TM), a licensed radiologic technologist and technician with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov