Software Developers in North Carolina
2026 Salary & Job Market Data
Quick Snapshot
| Metric | North Carolina | National | Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $131,000 | $133,080 | -1.6% vs US |
| State Rank | #14 of 53 states | Top 20 state | |
| Employment | 57,590 jobs | 1,654,440 jobs | 3.5% of US jobs |
| Job Concentration (LQ) | — | 1.00 | Average |
Full Salary Distribution in North Carolina
| Percentile | Annual | Hourly |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $79,620 | $38.28 |
| 25th Percentile | $102,430 | $49.25 |
| Median | $131,000 | $62.98 |
| 75th Percentile | $158,940 | $76.41 |
| 90th Percentile | $173,660 | $83.49 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the job outlook for Software Developers in North Carolina in 2026?
With a median salary of $131,000 in North Carolina and a 2022–2024 salary trend of +3.5%, software developers remain in stable demand.
How can software developers increase their salary in North Carolina?
Software Developers 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 53 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 Software Developers in North Carolina?
State-level industry data is limited for this occupation. Nationally, the top-paying industries are:
| Industry | Annual Median |
|---|---|
| Offices of Mental Health Practitioners (except Physicians) | $227,300 |
| Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services | $207,370 |
| Web Search Portals, Libraries, Archives, and Other Information Services | $207,370 |
How are Software Developers paid in North Carolina compared to the national average?
The median salary for Software Developers in North Carolina is $131,000, which is roughly in line with the national median of $133,080.