Forester Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median forester salary in Durham, NC is $60,601 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Forester Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median forester salary of $60,601, which is $1,914 above the North Carolina state average of $58,687. Compared to the national median of $63,790, Durham pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Durham's cost of living is 95% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for foresters in Durham spans from $39,900 at the 10th percentile to $96,900 at the 90th percentile — a $57,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $41,800, while senior foresters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $90,250. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Forester Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level forester earns around $41,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $90,250 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $39,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $48,450 |
| Median (50th) | $60,601 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $96,900 |
Forester Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Forester in Durham
Education
Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, forester employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Forester Jobs in Durham
Browse open forester positions in Durham, NC: