How to Become a Physician Assistants in North Carolina
Physician Assistants in North Carolina earn a median salary of $128,540/year, which is 4% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a physician assistants takes home approximately $6,324/month. Most positions require Master's degree.
What a physician assistants can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a physician assistants in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Physician Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Master's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many physician assistants 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.
Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification
North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for physician assistantss. 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 8,520 physician assistants. The highest concentrations are in Greenville and Fayetteville.
Physician Assistants salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greenville | $138K | $66.32/hr | 170 |
| Fayetteville | $132K | $63.68/hr | 260 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $132K | $63.52/hr | 2,500 |
| Winston-Salem | $132K | $63.26/hr | 800 |
| Asheville | $130K | $62.31/hr | 460 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $128K | $61.61/hr | 450 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $128K | $61.46/hr | 130 |
| Jacksonville | $127K | $61.27/hr | 100 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $126K | $60.44/hr | 1,300 |
| Goldsboro | $125K | $60.24/hr | 30 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $125K | $60.2/hr | 810 |
| Wilmington | $124K | $59.8/hr | 320 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $123K | $59/hr | 200 |
| Rocky Mount | $113K | $54.3/hr | 40 |
| Burlington | $109K | $52.52/hr | 60 |
Physician Assistants salary range in North Carolina
Physician Assistants careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a physician assistants make in North Carolina?▼
The median physician assistants salary in North Carolina is $128,540 per year ($61.8/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $133,260. Salaries range from $99,460 to $161,480.
What are the requirements to become a physician assistants in North Carolina?▼
Physician Assistants positions in North Carolina typically require Master'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 physician assistants afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $128,540, a physician assistants in North Carolina would take home approximately $7,736/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 18.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for physician assistants in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for physician assistants in North Carolina are Greenville ($137,940), Fayetteville ($132,450), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($132,110). 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 physician assistants?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $128,540 salary, this means roughly $5,784/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.