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Construction & Trades · North Carolina

How to Become a Construction Laborers in North Carolina

Construction Laborers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $42,250/year, which is 10% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a construction laborers takes home approximately $1,428/month. Most positions require High school diploma or equivalent.

$42K
Median salary in North Carolina
-10%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
38,530
Employed in North Carolina

What a construction laborers can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$42,250
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$2,840/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home49.7% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$42,250/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,428/mo

Becoming a construction laborers in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Construction Laborers positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.

2

Gain required experience

Many construction laborers 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 construction laborerss. 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 38,530 construction laborers. The highest concentrations are in Durham-Chapel Hill and Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia.

Construction Laborers salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Durham-Chapel Hill$45K$21.57/hr1,360
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$44K$21.27/hr11,790
Raleigh-Cary$44K$21.19/hr6,830
Winston-Salem$44K$21/hr2,030
Wilmington$44K$20.94/hr1,880
Greenville$43K$20.69/hr630
Pinehurst-Southern Pines$42K$20.08/hr280
Asheville$41K$19.59/hr1,340
Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton$40K$19.22/hr650
Burlington$40K$19.1/hr380
Jacksonville$39K$18.66/hr460
Greensboro-High Point$39K$18.64/hr2,640
Goldsboro$38K$18.43/hr300
Rocky Mount$37K$17.76/hr380
Fayetteville$37K$17.68/hr800

Construction Laborers salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$29K
25th percentile
$36K
Median (50th)
$42K
75th percentile
$49K
90th percentile (senior)
$62K
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Construction Laborers careers in other states

Frequently asked questions

How much does a construction laborers make in North Carolina?

The median construction laborers salary in North Carolina is $42,250 per year ($20.31/hr). This is 10% below the national median of $46,730. Salaries range from $29,460 to $61,630.

What are the requirements to become a construction laborers in North Carolina?

Construction Laborers positions in North Carolina typically require High school diploma or equivalent. 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 construction laborers afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $42,250, a construction laborers in North Carolina would take home approximately $2,840/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 49.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for construction laborers in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for construction laborers in North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill ($44,860), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($44,240), Raleigh-Cary ($44,080). 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 construction laborers?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $42,250 salary, this means roughly $1,901/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.