Sommelier Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median sommelier salary in Raleigh, NC is $60,760 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Sommelier Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median sommelier salary of $60,760, which is $3,720 above the North Carolina state average of $57,040. Compared to the national median of $62,000, Raleigh pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Raleigh's cost of living is 98% 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 sommeliers in Raleigh spans from $31,360 at the 10th percentile to $122,500 at the 90th percentile — a $91,140 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,300, while senior sommeliers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $115,640. With a population of 467,665, Raleigh is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Sommelier Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level sommelier earns around $34,300, while experienced professionals earn up to $115,640 per year. The local cost of living index is 98% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Raleigh, NC
| Percentile | Raleigh |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $31,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $43,120 |
| Median (50th) | $60,760 |
| 75th Percentile | $90,160 |
| 90th Percentile | $122,500 |
Sommelier Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Sommelier in Raleigh
Education
Most sommelier positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, sommelier employment is projected to grow 12% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Sommelier Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open sommelier positions in Raleigh, NC: