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Arts & Media · North Carolina

How to Become a Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in North Carolina

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators in North Carolina earn a median salary of $44,920/year, which is 26% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators takes home approximately $1,597/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$45K
Median salary in North Carolina
-26%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
260
Employed in North Carolina

What a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$44,920
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$3,009/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home46.9% (above 30% guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$44,920/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$1,597/mo

Becoming a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustratorss. 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 260 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators. The highest concentrations are in Asheville and Durham-Chapel Hill.

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Asheville$52K$24.99/hr
Durham-Chapel Hill$51K$24.46/hr30

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$31K
25th percentile
$39K
Median (50th)
$45K
75th percentile
$54K
90th percentile (senior)
$79K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators make in North Carolina?

The median fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators salary in North Carolina is $44,920 per year ($21.6/hr). This is 26% below the national median of $60,560. Salaries range from $31,430 to $79,040.

What are the requirements to become a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in North Carolina?

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $44,920, a fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in North Carolina would take home approximately $3,009/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 46.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators in North Carolina are Asheville ($51,970), Durham-Chapel Hill ($50,880). 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 fine artists, including painters, sculptors, and illustrators?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $44,920 salary, this means roughly $2,021/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.