How to Become a Public Relations Specialists in North Carolina
Public Relations Specialists in North Carolina earn a median salary of $63,280/year, which is 9% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a public relations specialists takes home approximately $2,758/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a public relations specialists can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a public relations specialists in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Public Relations Specialists 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.
Gain required experience
Many public relations specialists 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 public relations specialistss. 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 9,290 public relations specialists. The highest concentrations are in Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia and Fayetteville.
Public Relations Specialists salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $69K | $33.37/hr | 2,600 |
| Fayetteville | $67K | $32.21/hr | 170 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $66K | $31.67/hr | 1,140 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $65K | $31.16/hr | 1,970 |
| Greenville | $63K | $30.22/hr | 130 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $59K | $28.6/hr | 40 |
| Rocky Mount | $59K | $28.28/hr | 60 |
| Burlington | $57K | $27.44/hr | 70 |
| Jacksonville | $57K | $27.3/hr | 80 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $55K | $26.24/hr | 500 |
| Wilmington | $53K | $25.34/hr | 350 |
| Asheville | $53K | $25.3/hr | 400 |
| Winston-Salem | $51K | $24.63/hr | 320 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $50K | $23.84/hr | 180 |
| Goldsboro | $49K | $23.43/hr | 50 |
Public Relations Specialists salary range in North Carolina
Public Relations Specialists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a public relations specialists make in North Carolina?▼
The median public relations specialists salary in North Carolina is $63,280 per year ($30.43/hr). This is 9% below the national median of $69,780. Salaries range from $36,400 to $104,000.
What are the requirements to become a public relations specialists in North Carolina?▼
Public Relations Specialists 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 public relations specialists afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $63,280, a public relations specialists in North Carolina would take home approximately $4,170/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 33.9% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for public relations specialists in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for public relations specialists in North Carolina are Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($69,410), Fayetteville ($66,990), Durham-Chapel Hill ($65,860). 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 public relations specialists?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $63,280 salary, this means roughly $2,848/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.