How Surgeons 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) | $290,300 | $220,600 | $377,400 |
| Junior (2–4 yrs) | $360,800 | $274,200 | $469,100 |
| Mid-Level (5–9 yrs) | $414,800 | $315,200 | $539,200 |
| Senior (10–14 yrs) | $497,700 | $378,200 | $647,000 |
| Veteran (15+ yrs) | $564,100 | $428,600 | $733,300 |
Pay varies sharply within North Carolina. Major metros usually outpay state-wide averages.
| Metro | Median | 25th % | 75th % | vs North Carolina |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte | $424,800 | $322,900 | $552,300 | +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 Surgeon salary in North Carolina is $414,800 per year as of 2026, based on projections from BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. The 25th percentile sits at $315,200 and the 75th at $539,200.
Pay-wise, North Carolina sits -1% below the national Surgeon median ($419,000). Pay tracks roughly with the national average — cost of living is the deciding factor for take-home purchasing power.
Senior Surgeons (10–14 years of experience) in North Carolina earn around $497,700 per year on average. Veterans with 15+ years can reach $564,100 or more, especially at the 75th percentile and above.
Among all 51 jurisdictions (50 states + DC), North Carolina ranks 26th for Surgeon pay. The highest-paying state pays around $586,500 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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