How Much Nurses Make in North Carolina | Salary Guide

If you're exploring the possibility of a nursing career in North Carolina, understanding the salary expectations across different nursing specialties is crucial. This knowledge will guide you in choosing the right educational path to align with your career goals and financial expectations.

^{This article is an extension of our comprehensive nursing salary guide by state. All salary data has been aggregated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).}

Registered Nursing Salary in North Carolina

RNs in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $ 76,430, which is 14.14% lower than the national average of $89,010 or $42.80 per hour.

RN salaries in North Carolina may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, employer, education, and more. Here's a breakdown of low (10th percentile), average (50th percentile), and high (90th percentile) salary expectations. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 104,300 RNs.

Nurse Practitioner Salary in North Carolina

NPs in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $ 111,140, which is 10.85% lower than the national average of $124,680 or $59.94 per hour.

NP Salary in North Carolina may vary, however, based on numerous factors including NP specialization, years of experience, level of education, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a  total of 8,040 NPs.

Certified Nurse Midwife Salary in North Carolina

CNMs in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $ 119,020, which is 2.80% lower than the national average of $122,450 or $58.87 per hour.

CNM Salary in North Carolina may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, employer, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a total of 280  CNMs.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Salary in North Carolina

CRNAs in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $ 206,750, which is 0.48% higher than the national average of $205,770 or $98.93 per hour.

CRNA Salary in North Carolina may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, and more. The following salary data was gathered from  a total of 2,380 CRNAs.

LPN/LVN Salary in North Carolina

LPN/LVNs in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $51,300, which is 6.08% lower than the national average of $54,620 or $26.26 per hour.

LPN/LVN Salary in North Carolina may vary, however, based on numerous factors including years of experience, level of education, employer, and more. The following salary data was gathered from a  total of 16,230 LPN/LVNs.

What's It Like to Be a Nurse in North Carolina?

North Carolina offers a dynamic and rewarding environment for nurses. Here's what to expect:

• Diverse Healthcare Settings: North Carolina offers a wide range of healthcare environments, from large research hospitals and medical centers in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh to smaller facilities and clinics in rural areas. This diversity allows nurses to work in settings that align with their interests and specialties.
• Rural Health Challenges: A significant portion of North Carolina is rural, where nurses often face unique healthcare challenges. These include providing care with limited resources and addressing specific health issues prevalent in rural communities.
• Growing Demand for Healthcare Services: With a growing and aging population, particularly in urban and suburban areas, there is an increasing demand for healthcare services in North Carolina. This growth provides nurses with numerous job opportunities and the potential for career advancement.
• Focus on Community Health and Education: Nurses in North Carolina play a vital role in community health initiatives, including health education, chronic disease management, and preventive care, especially in underserved areas.
• Competitive Salaries and Varied Cost of Living: Nursing salaries in North Carolina are generally competitive. The cost of living varies across the state, with higher costs in urban areas like Charlotte and the Research Triangle, and more affordability in rural areas.
• Strong Educational Institutions: The state is home to several prestigious nursing programs, offering excellent opportunities for education and professional development. This supports nurses in advancing their careers and pursuing specializations.
• Professional Community and Networking: North Carolina has a robust professional community for nurses, with various associations providing support, advocacy, and opportunities for continuing education and networking.
• Quality of Life: The state's diverse geography, from the Appalachian Mountains to the Atlantic coast, offers a high quality of life with numerous recreational and cultural opportunities. This diversity contributes to a positive work-life balance for nurses.
• Regulatory Environment: The North Carolina Board of Nursing regulates nursing practice in the state, ensuring adherence to high standards. Nurses need to stay informed about state-specific regulations and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How do advancement opportunities affect nursing salaries in North Carolina?

Advancement opportunities can significantly impact a nurse's salary in North Carolina. Nurses who move into managerial or supervisory roles often see a notable increase in their earnings. Additionally, nurses who pursue advanced certifications or specialize in high-demand areas may also experience salary increases. Continuous professional development and gaining experience in specialized fields are key factors for salary growth in the nursing profession.

Q: How does working part-time affect a nurse's salary in North Carolina?

Part-time nurses in North Carolina typically earn a salary proportional to the hours they work, which means their annual income may be lower than that of full-time nurses. However, hourly rates can vary and sometimes may be higher for part-time positions, depending on the employer and the specific demands of the role. Nurses should also consider the potential impact on benefits like health insurance and retirement contributions when choosing part-time work.

Q: Does being part of a nurses' union affect salaries in North Carolina?

Union representation can play a role in determining nursing salaries in North Carolina. Unions often negotiate for higher wages, better working conditions, and additional benefits on behalf of their members. Nurses who are part of a union might find that they have access to better salary scales, job security, and support in workplace disputes. However, union membership also comes with responsibilities and dues, which is an important consideration for nurses.