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Transportation · North Carolina

How to Become a Commercial Pilots in North Carolina

Commercial Pilots in North Carolina earn a median salary of $126,740/year, which is 3% above the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a commercial pilots takes home approximately $6,228/month. Most positions require No formal educational credential.

$127K
Median salary in North Carolina
+3%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
1,470
Employed in North Carolina

What a commercial pilots can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$126,740
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$7,640/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home18.5% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$126,740/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$6,228/mo

Becoming a commercial pilots in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Commercial Pilots positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many commercial pilots 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 commercial pilotss. 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 1,470 commercial pilots. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Durham-Chapel Hill.

Commercial Pilots salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$164K$/hr420
Durham-Chapel Hill$161K$/hr60
Greensboro-High Point$132K$/hr100
Wilmington$131K$/hr50
Raleigh-Cary$129K$/hr170
Fayetteville$112K$/hr40

Commercial Pilots salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$63K
25th percentile
$76K
Median (50th)
$127K
75th percentile
$175K
90th percentile (senior)
$0
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Commercial Pilots careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a commercial pilots make in North Carolina?

The median commercial pilots salary in North Carolina is $126,740 per year ($null/hr). This is 3% above the national median of $122,670. Salaries range from $63,050 to $0.

What are the requirements to become a commercial pilots in North Carolina?

Commercial Pilots positions in North Carolina typically require No formal educational credential. 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 commercial pilots afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $126,740, a commercial pilots in North Carolina would take home approximately $7,640/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.5% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for commercial pilots in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for commercial pilots in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($163,530), Durham-Chapel Hill ($161,250), Greensboro-High Point ($131,510). 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 commercial pilots?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $126,740 salary, this means roughly $5,703/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.