Average Commercial Pilots Salary in North Carolina
Commercial Pilots in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $136,910, which is slightly below the national average of $144,150. This localized pay rate is influenced by a combination of regional economic factors, the specific demands of the aviation industry within the state, and the overall cost of living.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $136,910 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 26.0% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $205,365.
- Outlook: With a local workforce of 1,470 Commercial Pilots, North Carolina presents a moderately sized, yet stable, job market. The Location Quotient of 0.89 suggests a concentration of these professionals that is nearly on par with the national average, indicating a consistent demand for their specialized skills within the state's aviation sector.
Salary Overview
The average Commercial Pilots in North Carolina earns-5.0%below the national average.
$65.8
$2,633
$11,409
Commercial Pilots Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for North Carolina Commercial Pilots isn't provided, it's reasonable to assume that salaries in this high-skill profession have seen steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increased air travel demand, technological advancements in aviation, and inflation likely contribute to upward salary adjustments for experienced pilots.
Commercial Pilots Salary Distribution in North Carolina
The salary trajectory for Commercial Pilots in North Carolina typically escalates significantly with experience. Entry-level positions might start in the lower percentiles, while seasoned professionals with extensive flight hours and certifications can command salaries in the upper percentiles, reflecting a substantial increase in earning potential as career progression occurs.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| ApprenticeLearning trade under supervision. Classroom + OJT. | 10% (Entry) | $63,050 | $30.3 |
| JourneymanLicensed/Certified. Works independently on standard tasks. | 25% (Junior) | $102,683 | $49.4 |
| Senior TechnicianHandles complex installations & troubleshooting. | 50% (Median) | $126,740 | $60.9 |
| Foreman / MasterSupervises crews, handles permits & code compliance. | 75% (Senior) | $171,138 | $82.3 |
| SuperintendentSite management, business owner, or master tradesman. | 90% (Expert) | $205,365 | $98.7 |
Detailed Commercial Pilots Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$136,910
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$144,268
Adjusted for COL (94.9)
The average annual salary of $136,910 in North Carolina offers a strong purchasing power, especially when considered against the state's Cost of Living Index of 94.9. This index indicates that the cost of goods and services is slightly lower than the national average, meaning the nominal salary may translate to a higher real income for pilots residing in the state.
Job Market Context
1,470
Total Jobs
0.3
Per 1K Jobs
0.89
Location Quotient
North Carolina has 0.89x the national average concentration of Commercial Pilots jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
A Location Quotient of 0.89 for Commercial Pilots in North Carolina signifies that the concentration of these professionals is just shy of the national average. This suggests a competitive yet accessible job market, where opportunities exist without being oversaturated, providing a balanced environment for both new entrants and established pilots seeking employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Commercial Pilots
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Commercial Pilots Salary | $147,800↑ 8% | 32 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Commercial Pilots Salary | $154,900↑ 13% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near North Carolina
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Commercial Pilots make in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for a Commercial Pilots in North Carolina is $136,910. This typically ranges from $63,050 for entry-level positions to $205,365 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 5.0% lower than the national median of $144,150.
Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Commercial Pilots?
Yes, North Carolina offers a competitive earning potential for Commercial Pilots.The average salary of $136,910 is substantial, and the cost of living being below the national average enhances the real value of this income.
Is North Carolina a good place to live for Commercial Pilots?
With a Cost of Living Index of 94.9 (lower than the national average of 100), your salary goes further here.
Where are the highest paying cities near North Carolina?
Some top paying nearby cities include Greensboro-High Point, NC ($147,800) and Durham-Chapel Hill, NC.
What is the average salary for a Commercial Pilot in North Carolina?
The average annual salary for Commercial Pilots in North Carolina is $136,910.
How does North Carolina's Commercial Pilot salary compare to the national average?
The average salary in North Carolina ($136,910) is slightly lower than the national average ($144,150).
Is the job market for Commercial Pilots strong in North Carolina?
With a Location Quotient of 0.89 and a workforce of 1,470, the market is stable and shows consistent demand, nearly matching national concentration levels.
How does the cost of living in North Carolina affect a pilot's salary?
North Carolina's cost of living index of 94.9 is below the national average, meaning the $136,910 salary provides good purchasing power for residents.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 1,470 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 0.3 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Commercial Pilots • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in North Carolina