What Is a Good Salary in North Carolina?

What constitutes a “good” salary is a question many individuals consider when evaluating their financial standing and career prospects. A desirable income is personal, shaped by individual aspirations, family needs, and lifestyle choices. Understanding factors that influence earning potential and North Carolina’s economic landscape helps define what a “good” salary means in the state.

Defining a “Good” Salary in North Carolina

A “good” salary is subjective, varying based on financial goals, desired lifestyle, and household composition. For some, it means covering basic living expenses; for others, it includes significant discretionary spending, savings, and investments. The median household income serves as a benchmark for the general economic environment. In 2023, North Carolina’s median household income was approximately $70,800, providing a baseline for evaluating income within the state.

Key Factors Influencing Salary Levels

Several factors shape salary levels across professions and regions. Education and specialized qualifications play a substantial role in determining earning potential. Advanced degrees, professional certifications, or specialized training can lead to higher-paying positions, particularly in technical or medical fields, by signaling a deeper knowledge base and narrower talent pool.

Work experience is a primary determinant of salary progression. As individuals accumulate years in a role or industry, their expertise and contributions become more valuable. This often translates into increased responsibilities and higher compensation, reflecting a deeper understanding of operational nuances. Entry-level positions generally offer lower pay than roles requiring several years of professional history.

The industry or sector also heavily influences salary scales. High-demand, high-skill industries, such as technology, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing, typically offer competitive compensation packages. These sectors require specialized knowledge and continuous skill development, commanding a premium in the labor market. Conversely, industries with lower barriers to entry may present more modest salary ranges.

A job’s specific role and responsibilities directly impact earning potential. Positions with greater managerial oversight, complex problem-solving, or direct revenue generation generally command higher salaries. The seniority and strategic importance of a role within an organization correlate with its compensation. The size and type of the employing company can also affect salary levels, with larger corporations often offering more extensive compensation packages, including various benefits.

Understanding the Cost of Living in North Carolina

The real value of a salary is linked to the cost of living in a particular area, determining how far earnings can stretch. North Carolina generally boasts a cost of living about 4% lower than the national average. The average annual cost of living in the state was approximately $38,295 or $43,959, depending on the data set. This affordability makes North Carolina attractive for many seeking a balance between income and expenses.

Housing costs are a significant portion of living expenses and vary considerably across the state. In 2022, North Carolina’s median home price was $369,500, slightly below the national median. For renters, the median monthly cost for a two-bedroom apartment was $1,137. However, major metropolitan areas like Raleigh ($1,468) and Charlotte ($1,287) experience higher housing expenses compared to rural communities.

Utilities also contribute to the cost of living. North Carolina’s utility expenses are generally about 6% less than the national average. The average monthly cost for basic utilities, including electricity, water, and gas/fuel, is around $260, rising to nearly $400 with cable and internet services.

Grocery prices in North Carolina are broadly comparable to the national average. An average North Carolina family might spend approximately $1,064 on groceries each month. Transportation costs also impact budgets, with gasoline being roughly 3% cheaper than the U.S. average. Annual transportation expenses vary depending on household structure and commuting needs.

Healthcare expenses in North Carolina are, on average, about 12% higher than the national average, though some areas like Raleigh experience lower costs. The average annual healthcare cost per person is approximately $7,179. A higher salary in a high-cost urban center might not provide greater purchasing power than a modest income in a lower-cost rural area.

Typical Salary Ranges Across Industries and Regions

Salary figures in North Carolina reflect the state’s diverse economic landscape. For full-time workers, the average annual salary is approximately $74,644, while the median salary stands at $53,832. Other data indicates an average annual salary of $52,948, with most salaries falling between $36,539 and $67,871. The overall median income for the state is reported as $46,950, which can increase significantly in urban centers.

Specific industries offer distinct salary profiles. An IT Professional in North Carolina earns an average annual salary of around $80,088, with a typical range from $66,949 to $95,902. In the manufacturing sector, an Industrial Manufacturing professional averages $75,885 per year. A Manufacturing Engineer I commands an average of $75,123 annually, while a Manufacturing Manager can expect an average of $129,461 per year.

Geographic location also plays a significant role in salary variations. Major cities like Raleigh and Charlotte generally report average salaries in the mid-$50,000 to mid-$60,000 range. Average earnings in Cary are $109,271, in Durham $70,780, in Raleigh $65,695, and in Charlotte $63,593. Conversely, more rural parts of the state, including cities like Fayetteville and Hickory, typically exhibit lower average salary figures.

Tools for Personal Salary Research

Various online tools and resources provide valuable insights for understanding earning potential. Platforms such as Glassdoor, Indeed Salary, Salary.com, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), LinkedIn Salary, SalaryExpert, Payscale, and ZipRecruiter are widely utilized.

When using these tools, refine searches by applying filters for specific job titles, geographic locations, and years of experience. Many sites compile data from anonymous user submissions or aggregate HR-reported compensation, offering a comprehensive view of market rates. Beyond digital resources, networking and informational interviews with professionals can yield qualitative insights into compensation trends and industry expectations.

Consider total compensation rather than focusing solely on base salary. A comprehensive package often includes benefits that add significant value to financial well-being. These can encompass health insurance, retirement plans like 401(k) matches, paid time off, and potential bonuses or equity. Evaluating the full scope of these benefits provides a more accurate understanding of a job offer’s true worth.