Urban Planner Salary in Raleigh, North Carolina
The median urban planner salary in Raleigh, NC is $77,949 per year, which is 2% below the national median and 6.5% above the North Carolina state average.
Urban Planner Pay in Raleigh: What to Expect (2026)
Raleigh offers a median urban planner salary of $77,949, which is $4,772 above the North Carolina state average of $73,177. Compared to the national median of $79,540, 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 urban planners in Raleigh spans from $49,000 at the 10th percentile to $119,560 at the 90th percentile — a $70,560 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $50,960, while senior urban planners 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.
Urban Planner Salary in Raleigh by Experience
In Raleigh, an entry-level urban planner earns around $50,960, 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 | $49,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $61,740 |
| Median (50th) | $77,949 |
| 75th Percentile | $98,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $119,560 |
Urban Planner Salary in Other North Carolina Cities
How to Become a Urban Planner in Raleigh
Education
Most urban planner positions require a master's degree. Raleigh and the surrounding North Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, urban planner employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Raleigh may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Urban Planner Jobs in Raleigh
Browse open urban planner positions in Raleigh, NC: