Chapel Hill vs Raleigh: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Chapel Hill, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Chapel Hill, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $87,476 | $90,376▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $42.06 | $43.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $59,410 | $76,494▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $70,679 | $83,199▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $96,173 | $102,496▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $120,963▲ | $114,772 |
| Total Employed | 9 | 430▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Chapel Hill.
The salary gap between Chapel Hill and Raleigh is $2,900 (3.32%). Raleigh's median is -10.83% compared to the US national median of $101,352.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Chapel Hill spans $61,553,Raleigh spans $38,278. Chapel Hill 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, Chapel Hill ($93,457 effective) pays 1.50% more than Raleigh ($92,073 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Chapel Hill if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($120,963)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $93,457)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($90,376/year)
- ✓Larger job market (430 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, ultrasound technologist salaries in Chapel Hill grew 14.4% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Chapel Hill, NC
$72,882 (2024) → $83,366 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$67,850 (2019) → $86,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Chapel Hill, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Chapel Hill or Raleigh?
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Written by Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT
Career Analyst
Ravi has 10 years of experience as an ultrasound technologist. He specializes in abdominal and pelvic imaging. He works in a community hospital.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 4.93% 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 Ravi Patel, RDMS, RVT, a licensed ultrasound technologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov