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

Fish and Game Warden Salary in North Carolina

The median fish and game warden salary in North Carolina is $48,576 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $52,800.

Median Salary
$48,576
vs National
$-4,224
State Rank
#29 of 50
Cost of Living
92%

Fish and Game Warden Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)

North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for fish and game warden compensation. Fish and Game Warden salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $48,576 per year, fish and game wardens in North Carolina earn $4,224 less than the national median of $52,800.

A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $48,576 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $52,800 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: fish and game wardens at the 10th percentile earn $31,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $75,440 — a $44,160 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 $51,744.

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

Fish and Game Warden Salary in North Carolina by Experience

In North Carolina, an entry-level fish and game warden earns around $33,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $71,760 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$33,120
$-2,880 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$49,680
$-4,320 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$71,760
$-6,240 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in North Carolina

Percentile NC Salary
10th Percentile $31,280
25th Percentile $38,640
Median (50th) $48,576
75th Percentile $62,560
90th Percentile $75,440

Fish and Game Warden Salary by City in North Carolina

The largest employment areas for fish and game wardens 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 Fish and Game Warden in North Carolina

Education

Most fish and game warden positions require a bachelor's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Wildlife LawConservationLaw EnforcementFirearmsBoating SafetyCommunication

Job Outlook in North Carolina

Nationally, fish and game warden 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: Fish and Game Warden Salary in North Carolina

How much does a Fish and Game Warden make in North Carolina? ▼
The median fish and game warden salary in North Carolina is $48,576 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $52,800. Salaries range from $31,280 (10th percentile) to $75,440 (90th percentile).
How much does a Fish and Game Warden make per hour in North Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $48,576, a fish and game warden in North Carolina earns approximately $23 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is North Carolina a good state for fish and game wardens? ▼
North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for fish and game warden pay. The cost of living index is 92% of the national average. Entry-level fish and game wardens earn $33,120, while senior professionals earn $71,760.
How does North Carolina compare to other states for fish and game warden salary? ▼
The highest paying state for fish and game wardens is Hawaii at $89,760. North Carolina's median of $48,576 ranks #29 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Georgia ($49,104) and New Mexico ($49,104).
What is the entry-level fish and game warden salary in North Carolina? ▼
An entry-level fish and game warden in North Carolina earns approximately $33,120 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $49,680. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $71,760.
What city in North Carolina pays fish and game wardens the most? ▼
Charlotte is the highest paying city in North Carolina for fish and game wardens, with a median salary of $51,744. Other cities include Raleigh and Durham.