Agriculture & Environment North Carolina (NC) Rank #29 of 50

Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Carolina

The median agricultural scientist salary in North Carolina is $68,227 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $74,160.

Median Salary
$68,227
vs National
$-5,933
State Rank
#29 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Agricultural Scientist Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)

North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist compensation. Agricultural Scientist salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $68,227 per year, agricultural scientists in North Carolina earn $5,933 less than the national median of $74,160.

A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $68,227 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $74,160 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: agricultural scientists at the 10th percentile earn $40,480, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $112,240 — a $71,760 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in North Carolina for this role is Charlotte, where the median reaches $72,677.

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for agricultural scientists across the country.

Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Carolina by Experience

In North Carolina, an entry-level agricultural scientist earns around $44,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,800 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,160
$-3,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$69,920
$-6,080 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$105,800
$-9,200 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Carolina

Percentile NC Salary
10th Percentile $40,480
25th Percentile $51,520
Median (50th) $68,227
75th Percentile $90,160
90th Percentile $112,240

Agricultural Scientist Salary by City in North Carolina

The largest employment areas for agricultural scientists in North Carolina include Charlotte, Raleigh, Durham, and Greensboro. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Agricultural Scientist in North Carolina

Education

Most agricultural scientist positions require a bachelor's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AgronomyResearch MethodsData AnalysisSoil ScienceGeneticsScientific Writing

Job Outlook in North Carolina

Nationally, agricultural scientist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Agricultural Scientist Salary in North Carolina

How much does a Agricultural Scientist make in North Carolina? ▼
The median agricultural scientist salary in North Carolina is $68,227 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $74,160. Salaries range from $40,480 (10th percentile) to $112,240 (90th percentile).
How much does a Agricultural Scientist make per hour in North Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $68,227, a agricultural scientist in North Carolina earns approximately $33 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Carolina a good state for agricultural scientists? ▼
North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for agricultural scientist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level agricultural scientists earn $44,160, while senior professionals earn $105,800.
How does North Carolina compare to other states for agricultural scientist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for agricultural scientists is Hawaii at $126,072. North Carolina's median of $68,227 ranks #29 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Georgia ($68,969) and New Mexico ($68,969).
What is the entry-level agricultural scientist salary in North Carolina? ▼
An entry-level agricultural scientist in North Carolina earns approximately $44,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $69,920. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $105,800.
What city in North Carolina pays agricultural scientists the most? ▼
Charlotte is the highest paying city in North Carolina for agricultural scientists, with a median salary of $72,677. Other cities include Raleigh and Durham.