Sociologists in North Carolina
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | North Carolina | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $108,060 | $101,690 | +6.3% vs US |
| State Rank | #5 of 13 states | Top 10 state | |
| Employment | 240 jobs | 2,950 jobs | 8.1% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $63,940 | $30.74 |
| 25th Percentile | $71,080 | $34.17 |
| Median | $108,060 | $51.95 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,880 | $64.85 |
| 90th Percentile | $160,360 | $77.10 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Sociologists in North Carolina in 2026?
With a median salary of $108,060 in North Carolina and a 2014–2024 salary trend of +43.6%, sociologists are still in strong and growing demand.
How can sociologists increase their salary in North Carolina?
Sociologists 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 #5 out of 13 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 Sociologists in North Carolina?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $144,760 |
| Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences | $144,760 |
| Social Advocacy Organizations | $135,230 |
How are Sociologists paid in North Carolina compared to the national average?
The median salary for Sociologists in North Carolina is $108,060, which is 6.3% above the national median of $101,690.