Registered Nurse Salary in North Carolina
The median registered nurse salary in North Carolina is $74,722 per year, which is 8% below the national median of $81,220.
Registered Nurse Salary Overview in North Carolina (2026)
North Carolina ranks #30 out of 50 states for registered nurse compensation. Registered Nurse salaries in North Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $74,722 per year, registered nurses in North Carolina earn $6,498 less than the national median of $81,220.
A key advantage of working in North Carolina is its below-average cost of living (92% of the national index). This means the $74,722 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $81,220 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in North Carolina is significant: registered nurses at the 10th percentile earn $52,808, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $111,136 — a $58,328 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 $79,596.
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for registered nurses across the country.
Registered Nurse Salary in North Carolina by Experience
In North Carolina, an entry-level registered nurse earns around $53,360, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,800 per year. The cost of living index in North Carolina is 92% of the national average.
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See Investment Options →Salary Percentiles in North Carolina
| Percentile | NC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $52,808 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,456 |
| Median (50th) | $74,722 |
| 75th Percentile | $93,012 |
| 90th Percentile | $111,136 |
Registered Nurse Salary by City in North Carolina
The largest employment areas for registered nurses 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 Registered Nurse in North Carolina
Education
Most registered nurse positions require a bachelor's degree. North Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in North Carolina
Nationally, registered nurse employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). North Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
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Data shows Registered Nurses who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $31,078 over your career trajectory.
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