Forester Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median forester salary in Raleigh, NC is $62,514 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Forester Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median forester salary of $62,514, which is $3,827 above the North Carolina state average of $58,687. Compared to the national median of $63,790, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 Raleigh spans from $41,160 at the 10th percentile to $99,960 at the 90th percentile — a $58,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $43,120, while senior foresters with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $93,100. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Forester Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level forester earns around $43,120, while experienced professionals earn up to $93,100 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $41,160 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,980 |
| Median (50th) | $62,514 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $99,960 |
Forester Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Forester in Raleigh
Education
Most forester positions require a bachelor's degree. Raleigh 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 Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Forester Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open forester positions in Raleigh, NC: