How much do MRI technologists make in North Carolina? The median annual salary is $78,500, which is $9,680 below the national median of $88,180. North Carolina MRI techs earn a median hourly wage of $37.74.
This guide breaks down MRI technologist salary in North Carolina by metro area using Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2024), adds cost-of-living context, and covers how to start your career in the state.
North Carolina salary overview
| Percentile | Annual Salary | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| 90th (top earners) | $96,000 | $46.15/hr |
| 75th | $87,200 | $41.92/hr |
| Median (50th) | $78,500 | $37.74/hr |
| 25th | $70,500 | $33.89/hr |
| 10th (entry level) | $60,100 | $28.89/hr |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, May 2024 (SOC 29-2035).
Salary by metro area
| Metro Area | Median Salary | Hourly | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill | $84,000 | $40.38/hr | Research Triangle; Duke, UNC Health drive demand |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $80,000 | $38.46/hr | Atrium Health (Advocate) is the dominant employer |
| Winston-Salem | $76,000 | $36.54/hr | Wake Forest Baptist Health |
Highest paying: Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill leads at $84,000 median. Lowest paying: Winston-Salem at $76,000.
Cost of living and take-home pay
North Carolina’s cost of living index is 95 (national average = 100). This means everyday expenses are 5% below the national average, stretching your salary further.
State income tax: 4.5% flat rate.
| Factor | North Carolina | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Median MRI tech salary | $78,500 | $88,180 |
| Cost of living index | 95 | 100 |
| State income tax | 4.5% | Varies |
Job market and demand
North Carolina’s Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) is home to Duke University Health and UNC Health, two nationally ranked systems. Charlotte’s Atrium Health is the state’s largest employer. The state is growing rapidly, driving new healthcare construction.
North Carolina employs approximately 3,200 MRI technologists. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% national employment growth for MRI technologists through 2033, and North Carolina follows this trend.
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How to start your MRI career in North Carolina
North Carolina does not require a state license for MRI technologists. The Research Triangle pays the best, but Charlotte and the Triad (Winston-Salem/Greensboro) offer competitive wages with lower housing costs.
To become an MRI technologist in North Carolina:
- Complete an accredited MRI program. Options include ARRT-pathway programs (require prior radiology credentials) or ARMRIT-pathway programs like Tesla MR Institute (no prior credentials needed, 12-18 months).
- Finish clinical training. Tesla MR Institute has 12+ clinical training sites across North Carolina.
- Pass certification. Earn your ARRT(MR) or ARMRIT credential.
- Apply for positions. North Carolina employers widely accept both ARRT and ARMRIT certification.
For detailed program options and clinical site locations, see our MRI tech programs in North Carolina guide.