EMT/Paramedic Salary in North Carolina
The median emt/paramedic salary in North Carolina is $35,816 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $38,930.
EMT/Paramedic Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for emt/paramedic compensation. EMT/Paramedic salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $35,816 per year, emt/paramedics in North Carolina earn $3,114 less than the national median of $38,930.
A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $35,816 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,930 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: emt/paramedics at the 10th percentile earn $23,920, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $57,040 — a $33,120 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 $38,151.
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for emt/paramedics across the country.
EMT/Paramedic Salary in North Carolina by Experience
In North Carolina, an entry-level emt/paramedic earns around $25,760, while experienced professionals earn up to $53,360 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.
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Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in North Carolina
| Percentile | NC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $23,920 |
| 25th Percentile | $28,520 |
| Median (50th) | $35,816 |
| 75th Percentile | $46,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $57,040 |
EMT/Paramedic Salary by City in North Carolina
The largest employment areas for emt/paramedics 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 EMT/Paramedic in North Carolina
Education
Most emt/paramedic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Carolina
Nationally, emt/paramedic employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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