Durham vs Raleigh: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Durham, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Durham, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $426,217 | $436,404▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $204.91 | $209.81▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $247,206 | $253,114▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $306,876 | $314,211▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $517,958 | $532,355▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $643,281▲ | $634,755 |
| Total Employed | 67 | 104▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Durham.
The salary gap between Durham and Raleigh is $10,187 (2.39%). Raleigh's median is -1.24% compared to the US national median of $441,903.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Durham spans $396,075,Raleigh spans $381,641. Durham 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, Raleigh ($466,244 effective) pays 2.39% more than Durham ($455,360 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Durham if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($643,281)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($436,404/year)
- ✓Larger job market (104 employed)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $466,244)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, radiologist salaries in Durham grew 13.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.7% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Durham, NC
$356,867 (2024) → $405,921 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$365,396 (2024) → $415,623 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Durham, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Dr. Maria Chen, MD
Career Analyst
Dr. Chen has 10 years of experience in diagnostic radiology. She specializes in imaging techniques for oncology. She works at a regional medical center.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 5.00% 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 Dr. Maria Chen, MD, a licensed radiologist with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov