Gastonia vs Raleigh: Radiologist Salary (2026)
Compare radiologist salaries between Gastonia, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Gastonia, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $400,755 | $436,404▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $192.68 | $209.81▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $232,437 | $253,114▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $288,543 | $314,211▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $480,086 | $532,355▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $558,607 | $634,755▲ |
| Total Employed | 16 | 104▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for radiologists, winning 4 out of 4 metrics compared to Gastonia.
The salary gap between Gastonia and Raleigh is $35,649 (8.90%). 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 Gastonia spans $326,170,Raleigh spans $381,641. Raleigh has a wider pay range, suggesting more variation in pay between entry-level and experienced radiologists.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Raleigh ($466,244 effective) pays 8.90% more than Gastonia ($428,157 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Gastonia if…
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($436,404/year)
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($634,755)
- ✓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 Gastonia grew 13.7% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 13.7% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Gastonia, NC
$335,547 (2024) → $381,671 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$365,396 (2024) → $415,623 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Gastonia, NC
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Related Comparisons
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