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How to Become a Urban and Regional Planners in North Carolina

Urban and Regional Planners in North Carolina earn a median salary of $78,320/year, which is 6% below the national average. North Carolina has a state income tax of ~4.5%. After taxes and rent, a urban and regional planners takes home approximately $3,585/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.

$78K
Median salary in North Carolina
-6%
vs. national average
4.5%
State income tax
1,640
Employed in North Carolina

What a urban and regional planners can afford in North Carolina

Gross annual salary$78,320
Est. monthly take-home (after fed + 4.5% state tax)$4,997/mo
Median 2BR rent (North Carolina)-$1,412/mo
Rent as % of take-home28.3% (within guideline)
Cost-of-living adjusted salary$78,320/yr (RPP: 100)
Monthly remaining after rent$3,585/mo

Becoming a urban and regional planners in North Carolina

1

Meet education requirements

Urban and Regional Planners 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.

2

Gain required experience

Many urban and regional planners 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.

3

Obtain North Carolina licensure or certification

North Carolina may require specific licensing or professional certification for urban and regional plannerss. Requirements vary by state — contact the North Carolina Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.

4

Find positions in North Carolina

North Carolina employs 1,640 urban and regional planners. The highest concentrations are in Durham-Chapel Hill and Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia.

Urban and Regional Planners salary by metro area in North Carolina

Metro areaMedianHourlyEmployment
Durham-Chapel Hill$88K$42.3/hr290
Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia$80K$38.65/hr330
Raleigh-Cary$80K$38.57/hr320
Greensboro-High Point$79K$38.15/hr90
Fayetteville$67K$31.99/hr30
Asheville$66K$31.6/hr80
Winston-Salem$64K$30.94/hr50
Wilmington$62K$29.91/hr90

Urban and Regional Planners salary range in North Carolina

10th percentile (entry)
$55K
25th percentile
$63K
Median (50th)
$78K
75th percentile
$88K
90th percentile (senior)
$104K
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Frequently asked questions

How much does a urban and regional planners make in North Carolina?

The median urban and regional planners salary in North Carolina is $78,320 per year ($37.66/hr). This is 6% below the national median of $83,720. Salaries range from $55,410 to $103,890.

What are the requirements to become a urban and regional planners in North Carolina?

Urban and Regional Planners 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 urban and regional planners afford to live in North Carolina?

At the median salary of $78,320, a urban and regional planners in North Carolina would take home approximately $4,997/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.3% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.

What are the best cities for urban and regional planners in North Carolina?

The highest paying metro areas for urban and regional planners in North Carolina are Durham-Chapel Hill ($87,990), Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia ($80,390), Raleigh-Cary ($80,230). 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 urban and regional planners?

Yes, North Carolina has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.5%. On a $78,320 salary, this means roughly $3,524/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.