Salaries in Kinston, NC
What is the average salary in Kinston, NC?
Job seekers in Kinston, NC, can find a range of salary opportunities. The average salary in the area is around $51,701. This figure provides a good benchmark for understanding the earning potential in the region. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and position.
Here are some average salary figures for different job categories in Kinston, NC:
- Retail: $23,930
- Healthcare: $25,520
- Education: $13,420
- Construction: $9,110
- Manufacturing: $8,760
- Food Service: $6,530
- Administrative: $3,670
- Sales: $1,390
- Finance: $0,990
- IT: $0,730
- Other: $0,950
What are the best paying jobs in Kinston, NC?

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Staff Nurse
Average Salary: $96,883
Staff nurses work in hospitals and clinics, providing care to patients. They monitor vital signs and administer medications. Local hospitals offer opportunities for growth and specialization.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $90,412
These professionals help people with speech and language disorders. They work in schools, clinics, and hospitals. They create treatment plans and work with patients to improve their communication skills.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $79,466
RNs provide essential care in various settings. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They monitor patients, administer medications, and assist doctors with procedures.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $62,422
LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of doctors and RNs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They take vital signs, administer medications, and assist with daily activities.
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Technician
Average Salary: $60,358
Technicians work in various industries, performing specialized tasks. They may work in manufacturing, maintenance, or IT. They ensure equipment runs smoothly and troubleshoot issues as they arise.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $55,875
General managers oversee daily operations in businesses. They manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure customer satisfaction. They work in retail, hospitality, and other sectors. They play a key role in business success.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $49,834
Maintenance technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in various industries, including manufacturing and hospitality. They ensure machines run smoothly and fix any issues that arise.
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Registered Behavior Technician
Average Salary: $47,832
These professionals work with individuals with developmental disorders. They implement behavior plans and support clients. They work in schools, clinics, and homes. They help clients improve their skills and quality of life.
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Medical Assistant
Average Salary: $36,028
Medical assistants support doctors and nurses in clinics and hospitals. They perform administrative tasks and assist with patient care. They take vital signs, prepare patients for exams, and handle paperwork.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $34,763
Delivery drivers transport goods to customers. They work for various companies, including food delivery services and package carriers. They ensure timely and safe deliveries.
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What are the best paying jobs in Kinston, NC without a degree?

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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $34,020
Maintains the grounds of properties and facilities. Works for local businesses, parks, and schools. Requires a strong work ethic and attention to detail.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $31,217
Cleans and maintains rooms in hotels and other lodging facilities. Offers flexible hours and the chance to work with various establishments. Requires reliability and a neat appearance.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $26,725
Prepares and packages food orders for customers. Works in fast-food restaurants and cafes. Requires good communication skills and the ability to work under pressure.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $25,083
Assists in food preparation and kitchen duties. Works in restaurants and cafes. Requires teamwork and a willingness to learn quickly.
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Server
Average Salary: $24,595
Takes orders and serves food and drinks to customers. Works in restaurants and cafes. Requires good communication skills and a friendly demeanor.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $24,000
Cleans dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Works in restaurants and cafes. Requires attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Kinston, NC?

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Aya Healthcare
Average Salary: $64,434
Aya Healthcare is a leading healthcare staffing company. They offer travel nursing and allied health jobs. Aya Healthcare values its employees and provides competitive pay.
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UNC Health
Average Salary: $61,623
UNC Health is a not-for-profit medical system. It operates hospitals and clinics in North Carolina. They offer a range of healthcare services and competitive salaries.
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Signature HealthCARE LLC
Average Salary: $60,412
Signature HealthCARE LLC is a family-owned business. They provide healthcare services in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. They offer good pay and benefits.
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FlyExclusive
Average Salary: $55,211
FlyExclusive is a private jet charter company. They offer luxury travel services. They provide a competitive salary and benefits package.
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Smithfield Foods
Average Salary: $51,559
Smithfield Foods is a leading meat producer. They offer jobs in production, processing, and distribution. They provide a good salary and benefits.
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Lambert's Cable Splicing Company, LLC
Average Salary: $51,124
Lambert's Cable Splicing Company, LLC is a small business. They offer cable splicing services. They provide a competitive salary and benefits.
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City of Kinston
Average Salary: $45,779
The City of Kinston offers jobs in various departments. They provide public services to the community. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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Pactiv Evergreen
Average Salary: $45,727
Pactiv Evergreen is a packaging company. They produce sustainable packaging solutions. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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Lenoir County Public Schools
Average Salary: $41,355
Lenoir County Public Schools offers jobs in education. They provide quality education to students. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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Butterball
Average Salary: $36,125
Butterball is a well-known turkey brand. They offer jobs in production and processing. They provide a good salary and benefits.
How does the cost of living in Kinston, NC compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Kinston, North Carolina, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Kinston stand at 78, indicating that residents can expect to pay 22% less than the national average for housing. This lower cost can be particularly attractive to job seekers looking to maximize their savings or increase their disposable income.
In other areas, Kinston also offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to the average. For instance, groceries cost 90, which is 10% less than the national average. Utilities are slightly higher at 95, but still represent a 5% savings. Transportation costs are at 88, which is 12% below the national average. Healthcare costs are at 92, only 8% above the average, and miscellaneous expenses are at 85, which is 15% lower. Overall, Kinston provides a cost-effective living environment that can benefit those seeking a balance between quality of life and affordability.