Psychologist Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median psychologist salary in Durham, NC is $81,064 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Psychologist Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median psychologist salary of $81,064, which is $2,560 above the North Carolina state average of $78,504. Compared to the national median of $85,330, 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 psychologists in Durham spans from $45,600 at the 10th percentile to $147,250 at the 90th percentile — a $101,650 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $49,400, while senior psychologists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $137,750. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Psychologist Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level psychologist earns around $49,400, while experienced professionals earn up to $137,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $45,600 |
| 25th Percentile | $60,800 |
| Median (50th) | $81,064 |
| 75th Percentile | $109,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $147,250 |
Psychologist Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Psychologist in Durham
Education
Most psychologist positions require a doctoral degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, psychologist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Psychologist Jobs in Durham
Browse open psychologist positions in Durham, NC: