Physician Assistant Salary in North Carolina
The median physician assistant salary in North Carolina is $115,929 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina ranks #30 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Physician Assistant salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $115,929 per year, physician assistants in North Carolina earn $10,081 less than the national median of $126,010.
A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $115,929 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $126,010 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $77,280, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $160,080 — a $82,800 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 $123,490.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in North Carolina and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in North Carolina by Experience
In North Carolina, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $80,960, while experienced professionals earn up to $149,040 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in North Carolina
| Percentile | NC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $77,280 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,520 |
| Median (50th) | $115,929 |
| 75th Percentile | $138,920 |
| 90th Percentile | $160,080 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in North Carolina
The largest employment areas for physician assistants 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 Physician Assistant in North Carolina
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Carolina
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $33,111 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Physician Assistant Roles in North Carolina?
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