Overview Salaries

Salaries in Sanford, NC

Updated on Oct 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Sanford, NC?

The average salary in Sanford, NC is $53,934 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Sanford, NC, showing an average salary of $53,934 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Sanford, NC, showing an average salary of $4,494 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Sanford, NC, showing an average salary of $1,037 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Sanford, NC, showing an average salary of $26 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

The job market in Sanford, NC offers a range of salaries depending on the industry. Many jobs provide competitive pay, with an average yearly salary of $53,934. This average covers a variety of positions and industries. Workers can expect different pay based on their role and experience.


Here are some common industries and their average salaries in Sanford, NC:

  • Education, Training, and Library: $23,400
  • Sales and Office: $33,835
  • Management: $44,269
  • Business and Financial Operations: $54,704
  • Computer and Mathematical: $65,138
  • Architecture and Engineering: $75,573
  • Life, Physical, and Social Science: $86,007
  • Community and Social Service: $96,442
  • Legal: $106,876
  • Healthcare Practitioners and Technical: $117,311
  • Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media: $127,745
  • Protective Service: $138,180
Job seekers can find many opportunities with salaries above the average, especially in high-demand fields.

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What are the best paying jobs in Sanford, NC?

Sanford, NC, offers a range of well-paying job opportunities across different industries. Among the top jobs, the Behavior Analyst stands out with an average salary of $116,716. This role involves working with people to help them improve their behaviors and skills. Another well-compensated position is the Retail Sales Associate, with an average salary of $75,932. This job allows for interaction with customers and involves promoting products and services. For those in the skilled trades, the Automotive Technician role offers a competitive average salary of $75,565. This job requires expertise in diagnosing and fixing vehicle issues. Health care also provides lucrative options, with Registered Nurses earning an average of $71,544. Nurses play a vital role in patient care and health management. These jobs highlight the diverse and rewarding career paths available in Sanford.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sanford, NC, highlighting Behavior Analyst with the highest at $116,716 and Maintenance Technician with the lowest at $53,824.

  1. Behavior Analyst
    Average Salary: $116,716
    Behavior analysts work with clients to improve their quality of life. They often collaborate with healthcare professionals and educators. In this role, you can find opportunities with local healthcare providers and schools.
    Find Behavior Analyst jobs in Sanford, NC


  2. Retail Sales Associate
    Average Salary: $75,932
    Sales associates help customers find products they need. They work in a variety of stores, from clothing boutiques to electronics shops. This role offers flexibility and customer interaction, making it a great choice for many.
    Find Retail Sales Associate jobs in Sanford, NC


  3. Automotive Technician
    Average Salary: $75,565
    Technicians diagnose and fix vehicle issues. They work in local auto repair shops and dealerships. This job requires attention to detail and a passion for working with cars. It's a great career for those who enjoy a hands-on approach.
    Find Automotive Technician jobs in Sanford, NC


  4. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $71,544
    RNs provide patient care in hospitals and clinics. They coordinate with doctors and other healthcare staff to ensure patients receive the best care. Opportunities exist with local medical centers and healthcare facilities.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Sanford, NC


  5. CDL Driver
    Average Salary: $65,448
    Drivers with a commercial driver's license transport goods across the state. They work for logistics and transportation companies. This role is ideal for those who enjoy being on the road and meeting new people.
    Find CDL Driver jobs in Sanford, NC


  6. Elementary Teacher
    Average Salary: $62,447
    Teachers create lesson plans and help students learn. They work in public and private schools. This career offers the chance to inspire young minds and contribute to their development.
    Find Elementary Teacher jobs in Sanford, NC


  7. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $56,099
    LPNs provide basic patient care under the supervision of RNs and doctors. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. This role is perfect for those who want to support healthcare teams and help patients.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Sanford, NC


  8. General Manager
    Average Salary: $55,347
    Managers oversee daily operations in various businesses, including restaurants and retail stores. They lead teams and ensure smooth operations. This role offers leadership opportunities and the chance to grow within the company.
    Find General Manager jobs in Sanford, NC


  9. Technician
    Average Salary: $55,323
    Technicians work in various fields, from IT to manufacturing. They troubleshoot and resolve technical issues. This job is ideal for those who enjoy problem-solving and working with technology.
    Find Technician jobs in Sanford, NC


  10. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $53,824
    Maintenance techs perform repairs and maintenance on equipment and facilities. They work in industrial settings and office buildings. This role requires a practical approach and a focus on ensuring everything runs smoothly.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Sanford, NC

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

For those seeking well-paying jobs in Sanford, NC, without needing a college degree, several options provide good earning potential. Service Team Members can earn up to $38,567 per year, while Groundskeepers make around $36,312 annually. These jobs offer reliable pay and opportunities for growth in a variety of fields. Additionally, roles such as Servers and Baristas can bring in around $33,644 and $33,050 each year, respectively. Line Cooks, Housekeeping staff, and To Go Specialists also provide competitive salaries, with earnings ranging from $29,223 to $26,135 annually. These positions allow individuals to gain valuable experience and potentially advance in their careers with time and dedication.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Sanford, NC without a degree, highlighting Service Team Member with the highest at $38,567 and Dishwasher with the lowest at $20,914.

  1. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $38,567
    Work with customers to provide excellent service. This role often involves food preparation and customer interaction. Companies hiring in Sanford include fast-food chains and local eateries.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Sanford, NC


  2. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $36,312
    Maintain the grounds of buildings and properties. This involves landscaping, gardening, and light maintenance work. Local parks and large residential areas need groundskeepers.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Sanford, NC


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $33,644
    Serve food and drinks to customers. This role requires good communication skills and a friendly demeanor. Dining establishments in Sanford, from casual cafes to fine dining, are hiring.
    Find Server jobs in Sanford, NC


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $33,050
    Prepare coffee and other beverages for customers. This position involves customer interaction and order taking. Coffee shops and cafes in Sanford seek friendly and skilled baristas.
    Find Barista jobs in Sanford, NC


  5. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $29,223
    Prepare ingredients and cook food on production lines. This role requires attention to detail and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Restaurants and diners in Sanford need line cooks.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Sanford, NC


  6. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $28,432
    Clean and maintain rooms and common areas. This role involves sweeping, mopping, and ensuring a tidy environment. Hotels and motels in Sanford are looking for reliable housekeeping staff.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Sanford, NC


  7. To Go Specialist
    Average Salary: $26,135
    Prepare orders for takeout and delivery. This position includes customer interaction and order accuracy. Fast-food outlets and cafes in Sanford need To Go Specialists.
    Find To Go Specialist jobs in Sanford, NC


  8. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $20,914
    Clean dishes, utensils, and cookware. This involves working in a kitchen environment and maintaining cleanliness. Restaurants and cafes in Sanford require dishwashers.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Sanford, NC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Sanford, NC?

Job seekers in Sanford, NC, can find attractive salary opportunities at several companies. Pfizer offers the highest average salary at $97,013, followed closely by Caterpillar Inc. with $71,192. These figures indicate strong compensation packages available in the area, making these employers appealing for potential hires. In addition to Pfizer and Caterpillar Inc., several other companies in Sanford provide competitive salaries. Pentair offers an average of $69,028, while Pilgrim's pays around $57,072. Central Carolina Community College, Clean Harbors, Carolina Comfort Air, Inc., Central Carolina Hospital, Lee County Government, and Core-Mark International also provide solid salary ranges. This diversity of high-paying companies makes Sanford, NC, a desirable location for job seekers looking for rewarding career opportunities.
Graph displaying company salaries in Sanford, NC, highlighting Pfizer with the highest at $97,013 and Core-Mark International with the lowest at $43,160.

  1. Pfizer
    Average Salary: $97,013
    Pfizer is a global pharmaceutical company. They focus on the discovery, development, and manufacture of medicines and vaccines.


  2. Caterpillar Inc.
    Average Salary: $71,192
    Caterpillar Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines, industrial gas turbines, and diesel-electric locomotives.


  3. Pentair
    Average Salary: $69,028
    Pentair provides solutions and services for water management. Their products are used in plumbing, wastewater, and pool and spa applications.


  4. Pilgrim's
    Average Salary: $57,072
    Pilgrim's is a leading producer of branded and private label chicken products. They focus on producing a range of poultry products for various markets.


  5. Central Carolina Community College
    Average Salary: $53,159
    Central Carolina Community College offers a variety of educational programs. It focuses on providing vocational and academic training to students.


  6. Clean Harbors
    Average Salary: $52,698
    Clean Harbors provides environmental, energy, and industrial services. They are known for their waste management and hazardous services.


  7. Carolina Comfort Air, Inc.
    Average Salary: $51,072
    Carolina Comfort Air, Inc. provides HVAC services. They offer installation, maintenance, and repair of heating and cooling systems.


  8. Central Carolina Hospital
    Average Salary: $47,097
    Central Carolina Hospital is a healthcare provider. It offers a range of medical services and is dedicated to providing quality patient care.


  9. Lee County Government
    Average Salary: $45,144
    Lee County Government offers various public services. They focus on ensuring the well-being of the community through different government departments.


  10. Core-Mark International
    Average Salary: $43,160
    Core-Mark International specializes in the wholesale distribution of wine, beer, spirits, and related products. They serve convenience stores, restaurants, and other businesses.

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

Sanford, NC, has a cost of living index that is slightly below the nationwide average. The graph shows the average index at 100, but Sanford's index stands at 91. This means residents can expect to pay about 9% less overall compared to the national average. Housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous costs all contribute to this lower index. Housing costs in Sanford are 10% below the national average, while groceries and utilities are only slightly lower. Transportation costs are 15% lower, but healthcare costs are 3% higher. Miscellaneous expenses are also 12% lower. This mix of slightly higher and lower costs helps to create the overall lower cost of living in Sanford.
Cost of living comparison graph for Sanford, NC vs. Nationwide: housing 10% lower, groceries 5% lower, utilities 8% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 3% lower, miscellaneous 12% lower.

The cost of living index in Sanford, North Carolina, reveals that the local cost of living is generally lower than the nationwide average, which stands at 100. Sanford's housing costs are at 90, meaning residents pay about 10% less than the national average. This lower housing index can make Sanford an attractive option for those looking to buy or rent property without the higher costs typically seen in more urban areas.


Other essential expenses in Sanford also compare favorably to the national average. Groceries cost 95 on the index, which means they are just 5% above the average. Utilities follow closely at 92, indicating a slight saving compared to the national benchmark. Transportation costs are at 85, which represents a 15% reduction in expenses for those commuting or running a household. This combination of lower housing and transportation costs can significantly enhance affordability for families and individuals alike. Overall, Sanford provides a competitive cost of living that benefits those seeking a balance between quality of life and financial savings.

There are 438 job openings in Sanford, NC, today!

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Sanford, NC
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