Music Directors and Composers in North Carolina
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | North Carolina | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $61,780 | $63,670 | -3.0% vs US |
| State Rank | #14 of 32 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 200 jobs | 12,330 jobs | 1.6% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $37,610 | $18.08 |
| 25th Percentile | $49,490 | $23.79 |
| Median | $61,780 | $29.70 |
| 75th Percentile | $77,750 | $37.38 |
| 90th Percentile | $90,470 | $43.50 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Music Directors and Composers in North Carolina in 2026?
With a median salary of $61,780 in North Carolina and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +51.6%, music directors and composers are still in strong and growing demand.
How can music directors and composers increase their salary in North Carolina?
Music Directors and Composers in North Carolina can increase earnings by targeting higher-paying industries which tend to offer compensation well above the state median. Additionally, relocating to a higher-paying state could offer a significant income boost: North Carolina currently ranks #14 out of 32 states for this occupation. Pursuing advanced credentials, specializations, or roles with greater responsibility are proven ways to move toward the 75th or 90th percentile of earners.
Which industries pay the most for Music Directors and Composers in North Carolina?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $96,590 |
| Civic and Social Organizations | $92,930 |
| Federal, State, and Local Government, excluding State and Local Government Schools and Hospitals and the U.S. Postal Service (OEWS Designation) | $75,860 |
How are Music Directors and Composers paid in North Carolina compared to the national average?
The median salary for Music Directors and Composers in North Carolina is $61,780, which is 3.0% below the national median of $63,670.