Teacher Salaries in North Carolina: An Overview
| by Alex Skov
Famous for the Research Triangle area of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, it is no surprise that North Carolina is home to a vibrant community of educators dedicated to shaping the next generation. This makes understanding teacher salaries in North Carolina very important for current educators, aspiring teachers, and people considering careers in the Tar Heel State.
Moreland University is committed to supporting teachers at all stages of their careers with resources to help you understand teaching salaries in your state, across the U.S., and internationally. Continue reading to find insights into North Carolina’s teacher pay structure, what influences salaries, and how educators can increase their earning potential. You can also explore more information about teaching in North Carolina on our website.
Starting Teacher Salaries in North Carolina
According to the National Education Association (NEA), the average starting teacher salary in North Carolina is approximately $40,136 per year. Although this is below the national average, there are many variables that can affect this starting figure, such as your level of education, additional certifications, and school district.
Average Teacher Salary in North Carolina
The NEA reports that the overall average teacher salary in North Carolina is about $56,559 annually. While this is also below the national average, North Carolina’s cost of living is also below the national average, which makes this figure more competitive overall in practical terms. The average teacher salary in North Carolina can also be increased by a variety of factors, such as additional credentials and certifications, the subject area they teach, and their years of experience. Benefits like retirement plans, health insurance, and professional development opportunities should also be considered when looking at North Carolina teachers’ overall compensation.
Similarly, it’s important to note that teacher salaries generally reflect 10 months of work instead of a full calendar year since teachers often receive summer and holidays breaks from work.
Variations in Average Teacher Salaries in North Carolina
Teacher salaries in North Carolina can change depending on the district or county you are working in. Educator-reported information from Indeed recognizes these as the five best-paying cities for teachers in the state:
| City | Annual Salary |
| Winston-Salem | $63,747 |
| Fayetteville | $63,212 |
| Raleigh | $60,724 |
| Durham | $59,334 |
| Henderson | $58,339 |
Of these cities, Henderson is the only one not considered a large metropolitan area. However, most schools in rural areas offer smaller salaries for teachers as well as other professions due to lower cost of living versus urban areas, among other reasons. For example, the average teacher salary in Roanoke Rapids — a rural city in North Carolina with a comparable population to Henderson — is $44,369 per year, according to Indeed.
Factors Influencing Teacher Salaries in North Carolina
In addition to location, there are a number of other factors that determine teacher salaries in North Carolina, including:
- Education level: Teachers with higher education levels or certifications, such as a master’s degree or National Board Certification, typically earn higher salaries.
- Experience: Individuals with more years of teaching experience on their resumes are likely to earn more than those with less experience. The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction‘s salary schedule outlines these pay-raise steps, showing how it rewards teachers for their ongoing commitment as well as showing increases for professional development milestones.
- State funding and budget allocations: According to the NC DPI, North Carolina’s teacher pay is partially funded by state allocations, with local supplements provided by counties or municipalities. This means that budget decisions made at the state level can directly impact a teacher’s salary in North Carolina.
- Performance pay and bonuses: Districts can offer additional compensation through performance pay or bonuses for teachers, such as those in high-need subject areas like STEM or special education.
Increasing Your Potential Teacher Salary in North Carolina
While the figures above provide a starting point and averages, there are strategies you can use to enhance your teacher salary in North Carolina:
- Pursue certifications and advanced degrees: Enrolling in and successfully completing a teacher certification program can help you earn more, especially if you are transitioning from an emergency teaching certificate to a professional license. Obtaining a master’s degree or other advanced degree can also significantly increase your salary.
- Seek leadership roles: Becoming a department head, mentor, or instructional coach can mean taking on additional responsibilities for professional growth while also helping you earn stipends or increased pay.
- Explore high-need areas: Specializing in high-need areas like math, science, or special education can open doors to higher salaries due to increased demand for teachers in these subjects.
Average Teacher Salary in North Carolina vs. Other States
According to the latest data from the NEA, average teacher salaries in North Carolina rank in the lower half nationally. However, the lower cost of living in North Carolina combined with the advancement and professional development opportunities outlined above help make the state a competitive home for teacher salaries.
Budget and Funding Factors on North Carolina Teacher Salaries
The NC DPI notes that portions of teacher salaries in North Carolina are tied to the state’s budget and provides detailed budget information to help show the two are related. Exploring this information along with state-specific data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics is helpful when comparing teacher salaries in your district and state with teacher salaries in other locations.
Take the Next Step with Moreland University
Investing in your professional growth is one of the best ways to increase your earning potential as a teacher in North Carolina. Moreland offers affordable, 100% online teacher certification and master’s degree programs tailored to aspiring and current educators at any stage of their career. Our programs are designed to equip you with the skills and credentials needed to excel and maximize your salary potential.
See how Moreland supports teachers in North Carolina and sign up for an info session today!
