What is the average salary in Durham, NC?
Job seekers in Durham, NC, can expect a range of salaries across different industries. The average yearly salary stands at $58,742. This figure reflects a diverse job market with opportunities for various skill levels and professions.
The salary distribution shows a broad spectrum, with the majority of jobs falling between $24,000 and $103,091 per year. Key industries contributing to these salaries include healthcare, education, and technology. For example, healthcare professionals earn around $55,636, while those in education make about $39,818. Higher-paying sectors like technology and finance offer salaries upwards of $118,909. These figures highlight the potential for growth and advancement in Durham's job market.
What are the best paying jobs in Durham, NC?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $132,694
This role involves providing primary and specialty care. It requires collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals. Many opportunities exist in local hospitals and clinics.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $129,659
Software engineers design and develop applications. They work with teams to create software solutions. Tech companies in the area offer many job openings.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $126,235
Pharmacists ensure safe and effective medication use. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. This role is vital for patient care and medication management.
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Director
Average Salary: $116,803
Directors oversee department operations. They set goals and manage teams. This role is available in various industries, including healthcare and education.
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Project Director
Average Salary: $115,463
Project directors manage projects from start to finish. They coordinate teams and resources. This role is common in construction and IT sectors.
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Controller
Average Salary: $105,488
Controllers manage financial operations. They ensure accurate financial reporting. This role is crucial for maintaining financial health in organizations.
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Electrical Engineer
Average Salary: $104,568
Electrical engineers design and develop electrical systems. They work on projects ranging from power generation to electronics. Many opportunities exist in tech and manufacturing.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $99,880
Sales representatives promote products and services. They build relationships with clients. This role is essential for driving sales and revenue growth.
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Director of Nursing
Average Salary: $98,961
Directors of nursing manage nursing staff and operations. They ensure high-quality patient care. This role is vital in hospitals and healthcare facilities.
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Programmer
Average Salary: $98,665
Programmers write and test code for software applications. They work closely with software engineers. This role is in demand in tech companies and startups.
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What are the best paying jobs in Durham, NC without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $75,200
This role involves inspecting sales practices. Companies like ABC Sales and XYZ Inspections look for sharp eyes and a keen sense of detail. This job offers a good income and the chance to work with top firms.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $51,158
Canvassers visit homes and businesses to gather information. They work for companies like Market Research Inc. and Survey Solutions. This job is great for those who enjoy talking to people and collecting data.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $50,536
Managing a restaurant involves overseeing staff and ensuring smooth operations. Companies like Top Diners and City Eats need managers who can handle busy kitchens. This role offers a chance to lead a team and keep customers happy.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $48,314
Kitchen managers coordinate food preparation and staff. They work for eateries like The Gourmet Spot and Fast Bites. This job is ideal for those who love cooking and managing a fast-paced environment.
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Arborist Climber
Average Salary: $48,085
Arborist climbers trim and care for trees. They work for companies like Tree Care Pros and Urban Arborists. This job offers the chance to work outdoors and help maintain green spaces.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $43,619
Irrigation technicians install and maintain watering systems. They work for firms like Green Water Solutions and Lawn Care Experts. This role is perfect for those who enjoy working with technology and nature.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $39,122
Lawn care technicians mow, trim, and maintain lawns. They work for companies like Green Thumb Lawn Care and Perfect Lawns. This job is great for those who enjoy outdoor work and keeping landscapes beautiful.
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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $37,730
Recreation assistants help organize activities for community members. They work for parks and recreation departments. This role is ideal for those who enjoy helping others and organizing events.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,586
Landscapers design and maintain outdoor spaces. They work for companies like Beautiful Landscapes and Green Spaces. This job is perfect for those who love working outdoors and creating beautiful environments.
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Fryer
Average Salary: $36,923
Fryers prepare food in fast-food restaurants. They work for chains like Burger King and McDonald's. This job is great for those who enjoy fast-paced work and making delicious food.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Durham, NC?

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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $157,387
LifeStance Health offers mental health services. They focus on providing quality care to patients. Their team includes psychiatrists, psychologists, and therapists.
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CHG Healthcare
Average Salary: $131,026
CHG Healthcare provides healthcare staffing solutions. They work with hospitals and clinics to find the right staff. Their goal is to improve patient care.
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IQVIA
Average Salary: $130,406
IQVIA is a leading provider of advanced analytics, technology solutions, and clinical research services to the life sciences industry. They help companies make better decisions.
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The Clorox Company
Average Salary: $127,845
The Clorox Company makes household cleaning products. They are known for brands like Clorox Bleach and Pine Sol. Their products are used in homes across the country.
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Inclusively
Average Salary: $116,796
Inclusively helps companies hire people with disabilities. They believe in creating a diverse workplace. Their mission is to make hiring fair for everyone.
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Novartis
Average Salary: $110,557
Novartis is a global healthcare company. They develop and sell medicines. Their focus is on improving and extending people's lives.
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LabCorp
Average Salary: $108,516
LabCorp provides laboratory services. They help doctors make diagnoses. Their work is crucial for patient care and treatment.
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RTI International
Average Salary: $102,323
RTI International is a research institute. They work on projects in health, environment, and social sciences. Their research helps improve lives around the world.
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Novasyte, LLC
Average Salary: $99,407
Novasyte, LLC provides clinical research services. They work with pharmaceutical companies. Their goal is to bring new medicines to market.
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Thermo Fisher Scientific
Average Salary: $98,625
Thermo Fisher Scientific offers scientific instruments and services. They help researchers and scientists. Their products are used in labs all over the world.
How does the cost of living in Durham, NC compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Durham, North Carolina, shows a mixed picture compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Durham stand at 90, indicating that residents spend 10% less on housing compared to the national average. This lower housing cost can be a significant advantage for those relocating to Durham, as it provides more disposable income for other expenses.
In other areas, Durham's cost of living varies. Groceries cost 95, which is slightly below the national average, offering a modest saving of 5%. Utilities, however, are slightly higher at 105, meaning residents pay 5% more for utilities than the national average. Transportation costs in Durham are also 10% lower than the national average, with an index of 90. Healthcare costs remain on par with the national average, indexed at 100. Miscellaneous expenses, such as entertainment and personal care, are at 95, providing a 5% saving. Overall, Durham presents a cost of living that is generally favorable for many residents, particularly in housing and transportation.