Lawyer Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median lawyer salary in Raleigh, NC is $133,025 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Lawyer Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median lawyer salary of $133,025, which is $8,144 above the North Carolina state average of $124,881. Compared to the national median of $135,740, 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 lawyers in Raleigh spans from $63,700 at the 10th percentile to $234,416 at the 90th percentile — a $170,716 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $68,600, while senior lawyers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $215,600. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Lawyer Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level lawyer earns around $68,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $215,600 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $83,300 |
| Median (50th) | $133,025 |
| 75th Percentile | $182,280 |
| 90th Percentile | $234,416 |
Lawyer Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Lawyer in Raleigh
Education
Most lawyer positions require a doctoral degree. Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, lawyer employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Lawyer Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open lawyer positions in Raleigh, NC: