How to Become a Respiratory Therapists in North Carolina
Respiratory Therapists in North Carolina earn a median salary of $77,050/year, which is 4% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a respiratory therapists takes home approximately $3,515/month. Most positions require Associate's degree.
What a respiratory therapists can afford in North Carolina
Becoming a respiratory therapists in North Carolina
Meet education requirements
Respiratory Therapists positions in North Carolina typically require Associate's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across North Carolina. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many respiratory therapists 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 respiratory therapistss. 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 4,440 respiratory therapists. The highest concentrations are in Raleigh-Cary and Burlington.
Respiratory Therapists salary by metro area in North Carolina
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Cary | $84K | $40.18/hr | 490 |
| Burlington | $83K | $39.8/hr | 40 |
| Asheville | $82K | $39.23/hr | 170 |
| Winston-Salem | $81K | $38.73/hr | 460 |
| Greensboro-High Point | $80K | $38.69/hr | 310 |
| Wilmington | $79K | $37.89/hr | 150 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia | $78K | $37.37/hr | 1,000 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill | $77K | $37.21/hr | 450 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton | $75K | $36.21/hr | 130 |
| Fayetteville | $75K | $36.1/hr | 120 |
| Rocky Mount | $68K | $32.85/hr | 70 |
| Greenville | $67K | $32.18/hr | 160 |
| Jacksonville | $61K | $29.23/hr | 50 |
Respiratory Therapists salary range in North Carolina
Respiratory Therapists careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a respiratory therapists make in North Carolina?▼
The median respiratory therapists salary in North Carolina is $77,050 per year ($37.04/hr). This is 4% below the national median of $80,450. Salaries range from $61,370 to $90,910.
What are the requirements to become a respiratory therapists in North Carolina?▼
Respiratory Therapists positions in North Carolina typically require Associate'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 respiratory therapists afford to live in North Carolina?▼
At the median salary of $77,050, a respiratory therapists in North Carolina would take home approximately $4,927/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.7% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for respiratory therapists in North Carolina?▼
The highest paying metro areas for respiratory therapists in North Carolina are Raleigh-Cary ($83,580), Burlington ($82,780), Asheville ($81,610). 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 respiratory therapists?▼
Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $77,050 salary, this means roughly $3,467/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.