Average Speech-Language Pathologists Salary in Wilmington, NC
Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington, NC, earn an average annual salary of $87,920. This figure is notably below the national average of $101,660, suggesting that local market dynamics, such as demand and the cost of doing business, play a significant role in compensation within this coastal city. While the nominal salary is lower, understanding the local economic context is crucial for a complete picture.
Executive Summary
- Average Salary: $87,920 per year.
- Growth Trend: Salaries have shifted 11.5% ↗ over the last 5 years.
- Top Earners: Senior professionals (90th percentile) earn up to $123,850.
- Outlook: Wilmington, NC, hosts a local workforce of approximately 200 Speech-Language Pathologists. With a Location Quotient of 0.93, the concentration of SLPs in Wilmington is slightly below the national average, indicating a stable but not exceptionally high demand relative to other professions. The presence of 1.073 jobs per 1,000 workers suggests a consistent need for these professionals within the community.
Salary Overview
The average Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington, NC earns-13.5%below the national average.
$42.3
$1,691
$7,327
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Trends (2020-2024)
While specific historical data for Wilmington is not provided, it is reasonable to assume that salaries for Speech-Language Pathologists in the area have experienced a gradual upward trend over the past four years, mirroring national patterns. This growth is typically driven by increasing demand for healthcare services, advancements in therapeutic techniques, and a general rise in the cost of living, all of which contribute to higher compensation for skilled professionals.
Speech-Language Pathologists Salary Distribution in Wilmington, NC
The career trajectory for Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington, like elsewhere, involves significant salary progression based on experience. Entry-level positions typically command lower salaries, while seasoned professionals with specialized skills and extensive experience can expect to earn considerably more. The percentile gaps between junior and senior roles reflect the value placed on accumulated knowledge, clinical expertise, and proven effectiveness in patient care.
| Experience Level | Market Percentile | Annual Wage | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resident / New GradClinical rotation complete. Gaining floor experience. | 10% (Entry) | $62,310 | $30 |
| Staff ClinicianFull patient caseload. Proficient in core procedures. | 25% (Junior) | $65,940 | $31.7 |
| Charge / SeniorShift lead. Precepts new hires. Specialized certification. | 50% (Median) | $81,170 | $39 |
| SpecialistAdvanced degree/cert (e.g., ICU, OR). High acuity cases. | 75% (Senior) | $109,900 | $52.8 |
| Director / LeadDepartment head or Advanced Practice Provider. | 90% (Expert) | $123,850 | $59.5 |
Detailed Speech-Language Pathologists Market Analysis
Relocation Context
Nominal Salary
$87,920
Gross Pay
Real Wage (Purchasing Power)
$87,920
Adjusted for COL (100)
The average annual salary of $87,920 in Wilmington, NC, aligns perfectly with the national average cost of living, which is indexed at 100. This means that the purchasing power of an SLP's salary in Wilmington is equivalent to that of an SLP earning the national average salary in a location with a national average cost of living. Therefore, the nominal salary accurately reflects the local economic conditions without significant inflation or deflationary pressures.
Job Market Context
200
Total Jobs
1.073
Per 1K Jobs
0.93
Location Quotient
Wilmington, NC has 0.93x the national average concentration of Speech-Language Pathologists jobs. This means there are fewer opportunities per capita here compared to the U.S. average — competition for roles may be higher.
With a Location Quotient of 0.93, Wilmington, NC, presents a job market for Speech-Language Pathologists that is closely aligned with the national average in terms of professional concentration. This suggests a balanced market where the number of SLPs is neither excessively high nor unusually low compared to the overall workforce. Professionals can expect a competitive yet accessible job market, with opportunities available without facing extreme saturation.
Nearby Job Markets
Nearby Cities for Speech-Language Pathologists
| City | Salary | Dist. |
|---|---|---|
| Jacksonville, NC Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $83,730↓ 5% | 46 mi |
| Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $87,810↓ 0% | 67 mi |
| Goldsboro, NC Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $80,830↓ 8% | 81 mi |
| Fayetteville, NC Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $87,390↓ 1% | 87 mi |
| Greenville, NC Speech-Language Pathologists Salary | $93,640↑ 7% | 100 mi |
Comparing salaries near Wilmington, NC
Hiring Speech-Language Pathologistss?
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Speech-Language Pathologists make in Wilmington, NC?
The median annual salary for a Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington, NC is $87,920. This typically ranges from $62,310 for entry-level positions to $123,850 for top-level roles.
How does the salary compare to the national average?
The average salary for this role in Wilmington, NC is 13.5% lower than the national median of $101,660.
Is Wilmington, NC a lucrative place for Speech-Language Pathologists?
No, not exceptionally lucrative compared to the national average.While the average salary of $87,920 is substantial, it falls below the national average of $101,660. However, the cost of living being at the national average means the purchasing power is equivalent, making it a stable, though not high-paying, market.
Is Wilmington, NC a good place to live for Speech-Language Pathologists?
The Cost of Living Index in Wilmington, NC is 100. While higher than average, this often correlates with higher wages.
Where are the highest paying cities near Wilmington, NC?
Some top paying nearby cities include Jacksonville, NC ($83,730) and Myrtle Beach-Conway-North Myrtle Beach, SC.
How does Wilmington's SLP salary compare to the national average?
Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington, NC, earn an average of $87,920 annually, which is approximately 13.5% lower than the national average salary of $101,660.
What is the cost of living in Wilmington, NC for SLPs?
The cost of living in Wilmington, NC, is exactly at the national average, with an index of 100. This means that the $87,920 salary has the same purchasing power as the national average salary in a location with a national average cost of living.
How concentrated are SLPs in Wilmington compared to the rest of the US?
Wilmington has a slightly lower concentration of Speech-Language Pathologists than the national average, indicated by a Location Quotient of 0.93. This suggests a stable demand for SLPs in the area.
What does the job market look like for SLPs in Wilmington?
The job market for Speech-Language Pathologists in Wilmington is stable, with 1.073 jobs per 1,000 workers. The local workforce consists of approximately 200 SLPs, indicating a consistent need for these professionals.
Methodology: Salary data is derived from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) OEWS 2024 release. Figures represent gross pay before taxes. Analysis includes 200 employees in the Wilmington, NC area with a job density of 1.073 per 1,000 jobs. Cost of Living data is estimated based on state and metro averages.
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Semantic Salary Analysis for Speech-Language Pathologists • Data source: BLS OEWS 2024 •Jobs in Wilmington, NC