Park Ranger Salary in North Carolina
The median park ranger salary in North Carolina is $39,100 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $42,500.
Park Ranger Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina ranks #29 out of 50 states for park ranger compensation. Park Ranger salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $39,100 per year, park rangers in North Carolina earn $3,400 less than the national median of $42,500.
A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $39,100 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $42,500 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: park rangers at the 10th percentile earn $25,760, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $66,240 — a $40,480 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 $41,650.
Nationally, park ranger employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for park rangers across the country.
Park Ranger Salary in North Carolina by Experience
In North Carolina, an entry-level park ranger earns around $27,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $62,560 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.
Save More on Student Loans
Earning $39,100? You may qualify for student loan refinancing rates as low as 4.49% — potentially saving $14,000+ over the life of your loan.
Check Your Rate — No Credit Impact →Salary Percentiles in North Carolina
| Percentile | NC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $25,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $31,280 |
| Median (50th) | $39,100 |
| 75th Percentile | $53,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $66,240 |
Park Ranger Salary by City in North Carolina
The largest employment areas for park rangers 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 Park Ranger in North Carolina
Education
Most park ranger positions require a bachelor's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Carolina
Nationally, park ranger employment is projected to grow 5% over the next decade (faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Stand Out from the Competition
85% of recruiters say a professionally written resume increases interview rates by 40%. Stand out from 36,500 other Park Rangers.
Get a Professional Resume →Open to Park Ranger Roles in North Carolina?
Get matched with recruiters hiring park rangers in North Carolina at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: