Social Worker Salary in Durham, North Carolina
The median social worker salary in Durham, NC is $52,583 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 3.3% above the North Carolina state average.
Social Worker Pay in Durham: What to Expect (2026)
Durham offers a median social worker salary of $52,583, which is $1,661 above the North Carolina state average of $50,922. Compared to the national median of $55,350, 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 social workers in Durham spans from $34,580 at the 10th percentile to $83,410 at the 90th percentile — a $48,830 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $36,100, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $77,900. With a population of 283,506, Durham is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Social Worker Salary in Durham by Experience
In Durham, an entry-level social worker earns around $36,100, while experienced professionals earn up to $77,900 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Durham, NC
| Percentile | Durham |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $34,580 |
| 25th Percentile | $41,990 |
| Median (50th) | $52,583 |
| 75th Percentile | $66,880 |
| 90th Percentile | $83,410 |
Social Worker Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Durham
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Durham and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Durham may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Social Worker Jobs in Durham
Browse open social worker positions in Durham, NC: