How to Become a Lawyers in North Carolina
Lawyers in North Carolina earn a median salary of $124,880/year, which is 17% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a lawyers takes home approximately $6,129/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a lawyers can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a lawyers in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Lawyers positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
This career typically involves none in North Carolina. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for lawyerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in North Carolina
North Carolina employs 17,380 lawyers. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Raleigh-Cary.
Lawyers salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $137K | $65.99/hr | 5,290 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $128K | $61.6/hr | 4,340 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $123K | $59.25/hr | 1,340 |
| Winston-Salem | $121K | $58.28/hr | 980 |
| Asheville | $117K | $56.45/hr | 600 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $108K | $52.16/hr | 850 |
| Goldsboro | $101K | $48.62/hr | 80 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $99K | $47.36/hr | 80 |
| Wilmington | $98K | $47.34/hr | 570 |
| Fayetteville | $98K | $47.07/hr | 340 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $97K | $46.51/hr | 250 |
| Jacksonville | $93K | $44.83/hr | 150 |
| Greenville | $92K | $44.03/hr | 220 |
| Burlington | $91K | $43.61/hr | 70 |
| Rocky Mount | $84K | $40.58/hr | 90 |
Lawyers salary range in North Carolina
Lawyers careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a lawyers make in North Carolina?▼
The median lawyers salary in North Carolina is $124,880 per year ($60.04/hr). This is 17% below the national median of $151,160. Salaries range from $58,820 to $0.
What are the requirements to become a lawyers in North Carolina?▼
Lawyers positions in North Carolina typically require Doctoral or professional 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 lawyers afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $124,880, a lawyers in North Carolina would take home approximately $7,541/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for lawyers in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for lawyers in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($137,270), Raleigh-Cary ($128,130), Durham-Chapel Hill ($123,230). 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 lawyers?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $124,880 salary, this means roughly $5,620/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.