Overview Salaries

Salaries in Charlotte, NC

Updated on Apr 10, 2026
City
Salary

What is the average salary in Charlotte, NC?

The average salary in Charlotte, NC is $71,839 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Charlotte, NC, showing an average salary of $71,839 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Charlotte, NC, showing an average salary of $5,987 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Charlotte, NC, showing an average salary of $1,382 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Charlotte, NC, showing an average salary of $35 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Charlotte, North Carolina, offers an attractive environment for job seekers. The city has a diverse job market with various opportunities across different sectors. One of the key benefits is the range of salaries on offer. The average yearly salary in Charlotte stands at $71,839, which is competitive compared to many other cities.


Here are some of the salary ranges you can expect in different fields:

  • Entry-level roles: $25,000
  • Mid-level roles: $42,045 to $59,091
  • Experienced roles: $76,136 to $110,227
  • Senior roles: $127,273 to $195,455
  • Top executive roles: $212,500 and above

These figures provide a clear picture of the earning potential in Charlotte's job market. Whether just starting out or looking for a senior position, there are opportunities to match different career stages.

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What are the best paying jobs in Charlotte, NC?

Charlotte, NC offers many high-paying job opportunities for skilled professionals. Positions like Owner Operator, General Dentist, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse lead the list, with average salaries well above the national average. Experienced candidates in these roles can expect to earn between $157,813 and $315,291 per year. Charlotte's strong economy supports well-paying careers in healthcare, finance, and technology. For instance, Investment Bankers, Principal Engineers, and Enterprise Architects find lucrative positions in the area. These roles often demand specialized skills and experience, making them highly rewarding. Job seekers looking to maximize their earnings will find ample opportunities in these fields.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Charlotte, NC, highlighting Owner Operator with the highest at $315,291 and Solutions Architect with the lowest at $157,813.

  1. Owner Operator
    Average Salary: $315,291
    This job involves owning and operating a business. Many businesses in Charlotte, NC, offer this opportunity. Companies like UPS and self-owned trucking firms provide the chance to earn well. Success often depends on a sharp business sense and hard work.
    Find Owner Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $279,364
    Dentists provide essential health services. They work in private practices and clinics. Top dentists in the area often lead busy schedules. They see many patients daily, ensuring oral health is maintained for the community.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Charlotte, NC


  3. Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse
    Average Salary: $253,348
    This role focuses on mental health care. Nurses in this field work with individuals facing mental health challenges. They provide treatment and support. Hospitals and clinics in Charlotte, NC, are always in need of skilled mental health nurses.
    Find Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse jobs in Charlotte, NC


  4. Physician
    Average Salary: $228,683
    Physicians diagnose and treat various health conditions. They work in clinics and hospitals. Physicians in Charlotte, NC, often enjoy a good work-life balance. They provide vital care to the community and work with a range of patients.
    Find Physician jobs in Charlotte, NC


  5. Principal Engineer
    Average Salary: $189,757
    Principal Engineers lead teams on technical projects. They work in tech companies and large corporations. This job involves designing and improving systems. Engineers in Charlotte, NC, often have opportunities to innovate and make a significant impact.
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  6. General Counsel
    Average Salary: $180,959
    General Counsel provides legal advice to companies. They work with law firms or in-house for corporations. This role is crucial for ensuring compliance and legal strategy. Law firms and big businesses in Charlotte, NC, often seek experienced legal professionals.
    Find General Counsel jobs in Charlotte, NC


  7. Primary Care Physician
    Average Salary: $171,158
    Primary Care Physicians offer general medical care. They see patients for routine check-ups and minor illnesses. These doctors work in clinics and health centers. They are key to maintaining the health of the community in Charlotte, NC.
    Find Primary Care Physician jobs in Charlotte, NC


  8. Investment Banker
    Average Salary: $164,133
    Investment Bankers help businesses and individuals with financial transactions. They work in finance and banking firms. This job involves a lot of analysis and strategic planning. Investment bankers in Charlotte, NC, often work on significant financial deals.
    Find Investment Banker jobs in Charlotte, NC


  9. Enterprise Architect
    Average Salary: $163,627
    Enterprise Architects design and manage complex IT systems. They work in tech companies and large corporations. This role ensures that technology aligns with business goals. Charlotte, NC, has many tech firms seeking skilled enterprise architects.
    Find Enterprise Architect jobs in Charlotte, NC


  10. Solutions Architect
    Average Salary: $157,813
    Solutions Architects design IT solutions for businesses. They work with companies needing technology systems. This job involves understanding business needs and creating effective solutions. Charlotte, NC, has many firms looking for talented solutions architects.
    Find Solutions Architect jobs in Charlotte, NC

What are the best paying jobs in Charlotte, NC without a degree?

Job seekers in Charlotte, NC, can find great opportunities in various high-paying roles that do not require a college degree. For instance, Equipment Managers can earn an average of $91,565 per year. They oversee and maintain equipment to ensure everything runs smoothly. Sales Inspectors and Dry Cleaners also offer substantial salaries, around $68,000 and $72,000 annually, respectively. These jobs rely on keen attention to detail and strong communication skills. Other positions, such as Recreation Assistants and Restaurant Managers, provide stable incomes and the chance to grow in a dynamic work environment.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Charlotte, NC without a degree, highlighting Equipment Manager with the highest at $91,565 and Terminal Operator with the lowest at $44,500.

  1. Equipment Manager
    Average Salary: $91,565
    This role involves overseeing the operation and maintenance of various equipment. Companies like Duke Energy value skilled managers who ensure equipment runs smoothly and efficiently.
    Find Equipment Manager jobs in Charlotte, NC


  2. Dry Cleaner
    Average Salary: $71,985
    People in this role clean clothes and textiles. They work in places like Coin Laundry, handling delicate fabrics and using specialized equipment.
    Find Dry Cleaner jobs in Charlotte, NC


  3. Sales Inspector
    Average Salary: $68,154
    Sales inspectors review products to ensure quality standards. They work for companies like Lowe’s, checking items for defects before they reach the shelves.
    Find Sales Inspector jobs in Charlotte, NC


  4. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $57,974
    In this role, people help organize activities for community members. They work at places like local parks, ensuring everyone has fun and stays safe.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Charlotte, NC


  5. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $55,596
    Canvassers knock on doors to gather information. They work for companies like SurveyMonkey, collecting data for market research.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Charlotte, NC


  6. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $49,676
    Restaurant managers oversee daily operations. They work at spots like Buffalo Wild Wings, ensuring smooth service and a great dining experience.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Charlotte, NC


  7. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $49,381
    Concrete finishers shape and smooth concrete. They work on construction sites for companies like Bechtel, creating strong foundations for buildings.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Charlotte, NC


  8. Arborist Climber
    Average Salary: $47,700
    Arborist climbers trim and prune trees. They work for companies like Davey Tree, ensuring trees are healthy and safe.
    Find Arborist Climber jobs in Charlotte, NC


  9. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $47,277
    Irrigation technicians manage water systems. They work for landscape companies, ensuring plants get the water they need.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Charlotte, NC


  10. Terminal Operator
    Average Salary: $44,500
    Terminal operators manage the flow of goods. They work at ports, overseeing loading and unloading for companies like Maersk.
    Find Terminal Operator jobs in Charlotte, NC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Charlotte, NC?

Charlotte, NC, offers many top-paying job opportunities. Empire National leads with an average salary of $302,819. PwC follows closely with an average salary of $178,276. Both companies provide competitive compensation packages that attract many job seekers. Other leading companies in Charlotte include Microsoft, Accenture, and EY. These firms offer average salaries ranging from $150,971 to $160,203. Citi, Synchrony, Wells Fargo, and LifeStance Health also provide attractive salary options. Job seekers in Charlotte have numerous high-paying opportunities across various industries.
Graph displaying company salaries in Charlotte, NC, highlighting Empire National with the highest at $302,819 and LifeStance Health with the lowest at $150,971.

  1. Empire National
    Average Salary: $302,819
    Empire National offers a wide range of financial services. This company is known for its competitive salaries and benefits.


  2. PwC
    Average Salary: $178,276
    PwC is a global leader in professional services. They focus on audit, tax, and consulting services. They offer excellent growth opportunities.


  3. Microsoft
    Average Salary: $160,203
    Microsoft is a tech giant known for its software products. They offer high salaries and a dynamic work environment.


  4. Accenture
    Average Salary: $159,328
    Accenture is a consulting company that provides services in strategy, consulting, digital, technology, and operations. They value innovation.


  5. EY
    Average Salary: $158,572
    EY is a top auditing and consulting firm. They are known for their strong support and professional development programs.


  6. KPMG
    Average Salary: $153,797
    KPMG provides audit, tax, and advisory services. They focus on making their employees successful and satisfied.


  7. Citi
    Average Salary: $153,266
    Citi is a leading global bank. They offer a variety of financial services and excellent career opportunities.


  8. synchrony
    Average Salary: $152,757
    Synchrony is a financial services company. They focus on retail banking and are known for their customer-centric approach.


  9. Wells Fargo
    Average Salary: $152,093
    Wells Fargo is a major banking institution. They offer banking, investment, and mortgage services. They value their employees.


  10. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $150,971
    LifeStance Health provides mental health services. They are committed to improving patient care and employee well-being.

How does the cost of living in Charlotte, NC compare to the national average?

Charlotte, NC, boasts a cost of living index that closely aligns with the nationwide average. Each major category, like Housing and Groceries, shows a slight deviation from the national benchmark of 100. For instance, the Housing index is 95, indicating costs are 5% lower than the national average. Groceries also remain competitive at 98, which is only 2% below the average. Despite some variation, the overall cost of living index in Charlotte stands at 97, which is a 3% reduction compared to the national average. This suggests that, while some expenses like Utilities at 102 are slightly above average, others such as Transportation at 92 are below. This balanced index makes Charlotte a potentially attractive location for job seekers looking to manage their living costs effectively.
Cost of living comparison graph for Charlotte, NC vs. Nationwide: housing 5% lower, groceries 2% lower, utilities 2% higher, transportation 8% lower, healthcare 5% lower, miscellaneous 3% lower.

The cost of living in Charlotte, North Carolina, presents a mix of savings and costs that vary slightly from the nationwide average. Housing in Charlotte is 5% below the national average, making it more affordable for residents. People looking to buy or rent a home may find this aspect quite attractive. Groceries in Charlotte are also slightly lower, at 2% below the national average, potentially saving grocery shoppers a bit of money.


When it comes to utilities, Charlotte residents face a 2% higher cost compared to the national average. This could mean that expenses for electricity, gas, and water are a bit more than in other places. Transportation costs are another 8% lower than the national average, which can be a significant advantage for those relying on cars. Healthcare costs in Charlotte are at par with the national average, indicating no significant savings or extra costs in this area. Miscellaneous expenses are slightly lower, at 3% below the national average, providing a small additional saving across various daily costs. Overall, Charlotte offers a balanced cost of living with some areas offering savings and others being slightly higher.

There are 12,681 job openings in Charlotte, NC, today!

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Charlotte, NC
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