How to Become a Registered Nurses in North Carolina
Registered Nurses in North Carolina earn a median salary of $81,860/year, which is 13% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a registered nurses takes home approximately $3,779/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a registered nurses can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a registered nurses in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Registered Nurses 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
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 registered nursess. 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 108,510 registered nurses. The highest concentrations are in Burlington and Raleigh-Cary.
Registered Nurses salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington | $87K | $41.88/hr | 1,070 |
| Raleigh-Cary | $85K | $40.8/hr | 12,820 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $85K | $40.76/hr | 25,440 |
| Winston-Salem | $84K | $40.51/hr | 8,950 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $84K | $40.48/hr | 6,000 |
| Fayetteville | $81K | $39.07/hr | 3,350 |
| Rocky Mount | $81K | $38.99/hr | 1,120 |
| Greenville | $81K | $38.88/hr | 3,830 |
| Asheville | $81K | $38.81/hr | 4,760 |
| Goldsboro | $80K | $38.42/hr | 1,020 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines | $78K | $37.57/hr | 1,780 |
| Jacksonville | $78K | $37.43/hr | 890 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $78K | $37.35/hr | 2,950 |
| Wilmington | $76K | $36.4/hr | 4,400 |
Registered Nurses salary range in North Carolina
Registered Nurses careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a registered nurses make in North Carolina?▼
The median registered nurses salary in North Carolina is $81,860 per year ($39.36/hr). This is 13% below the national median of $93,600. Salaries range from $64,180 to $107,110.
What are the requirements to become a registered nurses in North Carolina?▼
Registered Nurses 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 registered nurses afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $81,860, a registered nurses in North Carolina would take home approximately $5,191/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 27.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for registered nurses in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for registered nurses in North Carolina are Burlington ($87,110), Raleigh-Cary ($84,870), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($84,780). 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 registered nurses?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $81,860 salary, this means roughly $3,684/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.