Healthcare North Carolina (NC) Rank #30 of 50

Anesthesiologist Salary in North Carolina

The median anesthesiologist salary in North Carolina is $278,732 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $302,970.

Median Salary
$278,732
vs National
$-24,238
State Rank
#30 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Anesthesiologist Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)

North Carolina ranks #30 out of 50 states for anesthesiologist compensation. Anesthesiologist salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $278,732 per year, anesthesiologists in North Carolina earn $24,238 less than the national median of $302,970.

A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $278,732 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $302,970 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: anesthesiologists at the 10th percentile earn $133,400, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $414,000 — a $280,600 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 $296,911.

Nationally, anesthesiologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for anesthesiologists across the country.

Anesthesiologist Salary in North Carolina by Experience

In North Carolina, an entry-level anesthesiologist earns around $138,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $395,600 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$138,000
$-12,000 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$280,600
$-24,400 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$395,600
$-34,400 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Carolina

Percentile NC Salary
10th Percentile $133,400
25th Percentile $202,400
Median (50th) $278,732
75th Percentile $358,800
90th Percentile $414,000

Anesthesiologist Salary by City in North Carolina

The largest employment areas for anesthesiologists 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 Anesthesiologist in North Carolina

Education

Most anesthesiologist positions require a doctoral degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

AnesthesiaPharmacologyPatient MonitoringCritical CarePain ManagementAirway Management

Job Outlook in North Carolina

Nationally, anesthesiologist employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Anesthesiologist Salary in North Carolina

How much does a Anesthesiologist make in North Carolina? ▼
The median anesthesiologist salary in North Carolina is $278,732 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $302,970. Salaries range from $133,400 (10th percentile) to $414,000 (90th percentile).
How much does a Anesthesiologist make per hour in North Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $278,732, a anesthesiologist in North Carolina earns approximately $134 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Carolina a good state for anesthesiologists? ▼
North Carolina ranks #30 out of 50 states for anesthesiologist pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level anesthesiologists earn $138,000, while senior professionals earn $395,600.
How does North Carolina compare to other states for anesthesiologist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for anesthesiologists is Hawaii at $539,287. North Carolina's median of $278,732 ranks #30 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Montana ($281,762) and Idaho ($278,732).
What is the entry-level anesthesiologist salary in North Carolina? ▼
An entry-level anesthesiologist in North Carolina earns approximately $138,000 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $280,600. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $395,600.
What city in North Carolina pays anesthesiologists the most? ▼
Charlotte is the highest paying city in North Carolina for anesthesiologists, with a median salary of $296,911. Other cities include Raleigh and Durham.