Average Paramedics Salary in North Carolina
Paramedics in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $54,210, which is below the national average of $58,870. This difference in compensation is often dictated by a combination of regional economic factors, the cost of living, and the specific demand for emergency medical services within the state. Understanding these local dynamics is crucial for assessing the true value of a paramedic's salary in North Carolina.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $54,210 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 27.2% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $70,630.
- Outlook: North Carolina boasts a significant workforce of 5,330 paramedics, indicating a substantial presence in the emergency medical services sector. The location quotient of 1.69 suggests that this profession is more concentrated in North Carolina than the national average, implying a robust demand and a well-established job market for these essential healthcare professionals.
Salary Overview
The average Paramedics in North Carolina earns-7.9%below the national average.
$26.1
$1,043
$4,518
Paramedics Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that paramedic salaries in North Carolina have experienced steady growth over the past four years, mirroring national trends. Factors such as increasing healthcare needs, inflation, and ongoing professional development likely contribute to a positive trajectory in compensation for dedicated paramedics across the state.
Paramedics Salary Distribution in North Carolina
As paramedics gain experience in North Carolina, their earning potential typically increases significantly. Entry-level positions may start closer to the lower end of the salary spectrum, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can command salaries well above the average. The widening gap between entry-level and senior percentile salaries reflects clear career progression and increased earning capacity within the field.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $40,240 | $19.3 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $40,658 | $19.5 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $51,110 | $24.6 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $67,763 | $32.6 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $70,630 | $34 |
Detailed Paramedics Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$54,210
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$57,123
Adjusted for COL (94.9)
The average annual salary of $54,210 in North Carolina presents a favorable financial standing when compared to the state's cost of living index of 94.9. This index is slightly below the national average of 100, suggesting that the nominal salary offers a reasonable purchasing power for residents, potentially allowing for a comfortable lifestyle relative to the rest of the country.
Job Market Context
5,330
Total Jobs
1.089
Per 1K Jobs
1.69
Location Quotient
North Carolina has 1.7x the national concentration of Paramedics jobs — a major employment hub for this role. Job seekers will find significantly more opportunities here than in most other areas.
With a location quotient of 1.69, North Carolina exhibits a higher concentration of paramedics compared to the national average. This indicates a strong and potentially competitive job market where demand for skilled paramedics is notably elevated, offering ample opportunities for both new entrants and experienced professionals seeking employment.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Paramedics
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Greensboro-High Point, NC Paramedics Salary | $49,120↓ 9% | 32 mi |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC Paramedics Salary | $60,460↑ 12% | 36 mi |
| Winston-Salem, NC Paramedics Salary | $51,030↓ 6% | 41 mi |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC Paramedics Salary | $58,930↑ 9% | 56 mi |
Comparing salaries near North Carolina
Hiring Paramedicss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Paramedics make in North Carolina?
The median annual salary for a Paramedics in North Carolina is $54,210. This typically ranges from $40,240 for entry-level positions to $70,630 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in North Carolina is 7.9% lower than the national median of $58,870.
Is North Carolina a lucrative place for Paramedics?
Yes, with caveats.While the average salary is slightly below the national average, the cost of living is also lower, and the job market shows strong concentration and demand for paramedics.
Is North Carolina a good place to live for Paramedics?
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 ($49,120) and Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC.
How does the number of jobs per 1,000 workers affect the paramedic market in North Carolina?
With 1.089 jobs per 1,000 workers, North Carolina shows a healthy demand for paramedics, suggesting a stable job market with consistent employment opportunities.
What is the significance of the Location Quotient for paramedics in North Carolina?
A location quotient of 1.69 signifies that paramedics are significantly more prevalent in North Carolina than the national average, indicating a strong industry presence and potentially higher demand.
How does North Carolina's cost of living compare to the national average for paramedics?
North Carolina's cost of living index of 94.9 is below the national average of 100, meaning that the average salary of $54,210 may offer better purchasing power than in higher-cost states.
Are there many job opportunities for paramedics in North Carolina?
Yes, with a total local workforce of 5,330 and a location quotient above 1, North Carolina presents a robust job market for paramedics.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 5,330 employees in the North Carolina area with a job density of 1.089 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Paramedics • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in North Carolina