How Physician Assistant (PA)s in North Carolina get paid in 2026 — median, range, experience tiers, metro breakdown, and a comparison against national pay.
Pay tiers reflect typical North Carolina compensation across career stages. Specialized employers may pay above these ranges.
| Experience | Median 2026 | 25th % | 75th % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry (0–1 yr) | $99,300 | $75,400 | $129,100 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $123,400 | $93,700 | $160,500 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $141,900 | $107,800 | $184,500 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $170,200 | $129,300 | $221,400 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $192,900 | $146,600 | $250,900 |
Pay varies sharply within North Carolina. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs North Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $145,300 | $110,500 | $188,900 | +2% |
Top occupations by median pay in North Carolina — useful context if you're weighing a career switch.
→ See full ranking of top 25 highest-paying jobs in North Carolina
If you'd consider relocating, here's how regional and comparable markets pay for the same job.
The average Physician Assistant (PA) salary in North Carolina is $141,900 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $107,800 and the 75th at $184,500.
Pay-wise, North Carolina sits -1% below the national Physician Assistant (PA) median ($143,300). Pay tracks roughly with the national average — cost of living is the deciding factor for take-home purchasing power.
Senior Physician Assistant (PA)s (10–14 years of experience) in North Carolina earn around $170,200 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $192,900 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), North Carolina ranks 26th for Physician Assistant (PA) pay. The highest-paying state pays around $200,700 on average.
The median is a benchmark, not a verdict. Your exact market value depends on your experience and education — plus your specific employer's pay band. Run the free calculator for a personalized number.
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