Cary vs Raleigh: Ultrasound Technologist Salary (2026)
Compare ultrasound technologist salaries between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cary, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $89,946 | $90,376▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $43.24 | $43.45▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $65,004 | $76,494▲ |
| 25th Percentile | $75,917 | $83,199▲ |
| 75th Percentile | $98,511 | $102,496▲ |
| Top Earner (P90) | $124,223▲ | $114,772 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 430▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for ultrasound technologists, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cary.
The salary gap between Cary and Raleigh is $430 (0.48%). 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 Cary spans $59,219,Raleigh spans $38,278. Cary 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, Cary ($96,096 effective) pays 4.37% 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 Cary if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($124,223)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $96,096)
- ✓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 Cary grew 16.8% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 26.9% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Cary, NC
$73,387 (2024) → $85,720 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$67,850 (2019) → $86,130 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
Which city pays ultrasound technologists more: Cary or Raleigh?
What is the hourly rate difference between Cary and Raleigh?
Should I relocate from Cary to Raleigh as a ultrasound technologist?
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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