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Engineering · North Carolina

How to Become a Civil Engineers in North Carolina

Civil Engineers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $93,590/year, which is 6% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a civil engineers takes home approximately $4,423/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$94K
Median salary in North Carolina
-6%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
12,670
Employed in North Carolina

What a civil engineers can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$93,590
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$5,835/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home24.2% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$93,590/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$4,423/mo

Becoming a civil engineers in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Civil Engineers positions in North Carolina typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many civil engineers positions in North Carolina require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for civil engineerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 12,670 civil engineers. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Raleigh-Cary.

Civil Engineers salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$100K$48.1/hr3,420
Raleigh-Cary$98K$47.13/hr4,490
Asheville$98K$46.91/hr370
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$95K$45.69/hr50
Fayetteville$93K$44.87/hr250
Wilmington$93K$44.56/hr480
Durham-Chapel Hill$93K$44.56/hr690
Burlington$92K$44.04/hr40
Greenville$92K$44.02/hr210
Greensboro-High Point$90K$43.48/hr550
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$89K$42.56/hr120
Winston-Salem$84K$40.25/hr340
Rocky Mount$83K$39.79/hr50
Goldsboro$78K$37.5/hr60
Jacksonville$78K$37.34/hr120

Civil Engineers salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$65K
25th percentile
$77K
Median (50th)
$94K
75th percentile
$118K
90th percentile (senior)
$145K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a civil engineers make in North Carolina?

The median civil engineers salary in North Carolina is $93,590 per year ($45/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $99,590. Salaries range from $65,160 to $145,010.

What are the requirements to become a civil engineers in North Carolina?

Civil Engineers positions in North Carolina typically require Bachelor's degree. North Carolina may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the North Carolina licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.

Can a civil engineers afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $93,590, a civil engineers in North Carolina would take home approximately $5,835/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 24.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for civil engineers in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for civil engineers in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($100,040), Raleigh-Cary ($98,030), Asheville ($97,570). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.

Does North Carolina have state income tax for civil engineers?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $93,590 salary, this means roughly $4,212/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.