By: All Criminal Justice Schools Staff
Updated: January 5, 2026
Find Paralegal Salaries for Your State
Learn what you may be able to earn in your state, how the cost of living and other factors could impact your pay, why education matters—and much more.
What do paralegal salaries look like in North Carolina?
North Carolina is best known for its Research Triangle Park (RTP), one of the largest research parks in the world. Located between the cities of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill, RTP is a major center for research and development, home to numerous high-tech companies, universities and government agencies.
The park has significantly contributed to the state’s economy and reputation in science and technology, and is at least partially responsible for the burst of population and economic growth in recent years. As a result, the need for legal services has also increased. Some additional reasons to consider North Carolina for your paralegal education and career are:
- Large legal market: North Carolina has a robust legal market, especially in cities like Charlotte and Raleigh. These cities are home to many law firms, corporations and financial institutions that require legal services, increasing the demand for paralegals.
- Strong corporate presence: Charlotte is a major banking hub in the United States, second only to New York City. The presence of large banks and financial institutions creates a significant need for legal support staff, including paralegals.
- Paralegal schools and programs: North Carolina has several schools and programs offering paralegal studies. Institutions such as the University of North Carolina, Meredith College and Central Piedmont Community College provide specialized training, making it easier for individuals to enter the field.
Let’s look at salaries and education requirements for paralegals and paralegal students in North Carolina.
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North Carolina is a solid state for paralegals, with around 10,950 people employed in the profession, says the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). This amounts to nearly 2.5 people being a paralegal for every 1,000 people who live in the state. The median wage per hour is $28 and the forecasted job growth for the coming decade is -0.3%.
North Carolina has experienced significant economic and population growth in recent years, leading to an increase in business activity and, consequently, a greater need for legal services. The state government and local bar associations often provide support and resources for paralegals, such as continuing education and networking opportunities, which can make the profession more attractive. And, compared to other states with large legal markets, North Carolina has a relatively lower cost of living.
In North Carolina, several high-profile employers hire paralegals across various sectors, including law firms, financial institutions and corporations. Here are five diverse but prominent employers:
- Bank of America, Charlotte (corporate center), NC:
- As one of the largest banking institutions in the United States, Bank of America has a significant legal department that requires paralegal support for various legal and regulatory matters.
- Duke Energy, Charlotte, NC:
- Duke Energy is a major electric power holding company covering the western North Carolina area. Its legal department handles issues related to energy regulation, environmental law and corporate governance, providing opportunities for paralegals.
- Womble Bond Dickenson, Charlotte, Raleigh, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and Durham, NC:
- A transatlantic law firm with a strong presence in North Carolina, Womble Bond Dickinson employs many paralegals to assist with corporate law, litigation, real estate, and intellectual property.
- UNC Health Care, Chapel Hill and Rocky Mount, NC:
- As a large, integrated health care system, UNC Health Care has a legal department that deals with healthcare law, patient rights, regulatory compliance and corporate matters, requiring paralegal expertise.
- SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC:
- SAS Institute is a global leader in analytics software and services. The company’s legal department manages intellectual property, contracts, compliance and other legal matters, providing varied opportunities for paralegals.
Quick stats for NC paralegal salaries
North Carolina offers a growing legal market with good opportunities, lower salaries compared to California and New York, but a significantly lower cost of living and a higher quality of life. Still, there are other factors that affect how much you earn, which may include where you work and live, how much experience you have, your paralegal specialty, what professional certifications you have and your level of education. Here are median annual salaries for different legal studies careers nationally, and in North Carolina specifically.
Salaries for different legal studies careers (national median)
Salaries for paralegal roles in North Carolina
Paralegals in North Carolina earn competitive salaries, though the state boasts a lower cost of living. Salaries average something like this, and can vary based on experience, location and the type of employer.
- Entry-level paralegals: Typically earn between $35,000 and $45,000 per year.
- Mid-level paralegals: With several years of experience, can earn between $45,000 and $60,000 annually.
- Experienced paralegals: Those with specialized skills or extensive experience may earn between $60,000 and $75,000 or more per year.
Median paralegal salary in North Carolina
The median annual salary for paralegals in North Carolina is $57,500, and the BLS says that the Piedmont area and the nonmetropolitan southeast coastal region (which would include Jacksonville and Fayetteville) of North Carolina take the number one and two spots for highest employment of paralegals in the U.S. nonmetropolitan areas. Take a look at salaries by percentage and for different cities in NC:
Paralegals and Legal Assistants
10%$38,570
25%$47,640
50%$57,500Median
75%$71,930
90%$84,410
Median Hourly Wage$28
Job growth-0.3%
Total Employment13,650
| Metro area | Median Salary | Bottom 10% | Top 10% |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh-Cary, NC | $61,880 | $38,690 | $85,560 |
| Fayetteville, NC | $60,370 | $37,970 | $74,400 |
| Charlotte-Concord-Gastonia, NC-SC | $59,870 | $43,160 | $99,530 |
| Greensboro-High Point, NC | $58,650 | $38,180 | $77,250 |
| Asheville, NC | $57,500 | $46,190 | $77,670 |
| Wilmington, NC | $56,060 | $40,090 | $75,600 |
| Durham-Chapel Hill, NC | $52,500 | $46,280 | $89,720 |
| Jacksonville, NC | $51,630 | $36,460 | $78,850 |
| Burlington, NC | $51,620 | $37,440 | $71,240 |
| Winston-Salem, NC | $50,680 | $38,840 | $75,040 |
| Goldsboro, NC | $49,890 | $33,280 | $62,710 |
| Pinehurst-Southern Pines, NC | $49,430 | $37,170 | $70,520 |
| Rocky Mount, NC | $49,140 | $34,270 | $68,630 |
| Hickory-Lenoir-Morganton, NC | $48,530 | $32,070 | $73,490 |
| Greenville, NC | $47,530 | $35,960 | $63,790 |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 2025 median salary; projected job growth through 2035. Actual salaries vary depending on location, level of education, years of experience, work environment, and other factors. Salaries may differ even more for those who are self-employed or work part time.
Salary range in North Carolina
The salary range for paralegals and legal assistants in North Carolina spans from $38,570 for the lowest 10% to $84,410 for the highest 10% of working paralegals per year. This accounts for entry-level positions to senior-level roles and takes into consideration the other factors such as time on the job, education and certifications and area of specialty. Of not is in major cities like Charlotte and Raleigh, salaries might be higher due to the increased demand and cost of living.
Pay by metro area for paralegals
Your earning level may depend upon where you live within your state. For example, cities in North Carolina tend to pay better than rural or less populated areas, larger law firms better than small, and obviously a law mecca such as Charlotte or a seat of government such as Raleigh, will pay more competitively, though the cost of living will likely also be higher. That said, here’s what the BLS reports as top 10 highest paying cities in the U.S. for paralegal and legal assisting fields. Cities in California, which is the second highest paying state for paralegals in the country, dominate the list:
Salary growth and job outlook for paralegals
Paralegals in North Carolina have a -0.3% job growth rate predicted through 2035 says the BLS. This is just higher than the national average for all other career fields combined. Some other legal career job growth rates are as follows, compared to paralegals. As you can see, the job growth rate for paralegals surpasses other legal support roles:
| Legal support career | BLS predicted job growth rate through 2035 |
|---|---|
| Paralegals and legal assistants | -0.3% |
| Legal secretaries and administrative assistants | -5.2% |
| Legal support workers, all others | -0.3% |
| Judicial law clerks | 2.8% |
Factors affecting paralegal salaries in NC
Several factors specific to North Carolina’s legal scene and laws can impact a paralegal’s salary in the state. Here are just some of the things to consider when you’re gauging what your paralegal salary might be in NC:
- Type of employer:
- Paralegals working for large law firms or corporations tend to earn more than those employed by smaller firms or government agencies. North Carolina has a mix of national and regional law firms, which can influence salary ranges.
- Geographic location:
- Paralegals in larger cities like Charlotte, Raleigh and Durham typically earn higher salaries due to higher living costs and a higher demand for legal services.
- Specializing:
- Certain legal specializations, such as corporate law, intellectual property and healthcare law, are usually more lucrative. North Carolina’s diverse economy, including strong sectors in technology, biotechnology and finance, influences demand for specialized paralegal skills.
- Earning certification:
- Paralegals with professional certifications from organizations like the National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) or the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) may command higher salaries. Skills in legal research, software proficiency and bilingual abilities may also increase earning potential.
- Regulatory environment:
- North Carolina’s legal market is influenced by its state laws and regulations. Awareness of local legislation, particularly in fields like real estate, healthcare and business law, can impact a paralegal’s value to employers.
- State economic conditions:
- The overall economic health of North Carolina can impact salaries. Economic growth in sectors like banking, technology and healthcare can lead to increased demand for legal services, potentially raising salaries for paralegals.
How can I know if I am being paid fairly in NC?
If you discover that a coworker is being paid more for doing the same paralegal duties, consider the following steps:
- Document your work: Keep detailed records of your job responsibilities, achievements and any additional tasks or special projects you performed that go beyond your job description.
- Research the market: Investigate the typical salary range for paralegals in your region and within your specialization to ensure you have a solid understanding of fair compensation.
- Review company policies: Check your employer’s policies on salary transparency, raises and performance reviews. Understanding the official procedures can help you prepare your case.
- Prepare your case: Gather evidence of your work performance, including positive performance reviews, client feedback and any awards or recognitions you’ve received. Compare your job duties and performance with those of the higher-paid coworker if possible.
- Request a meeting: Schedule a private meeting with your supervisor or HR representative to discuss your concerns. Approach the conversation professionally and calmly.
- Present your case: During the meeting, present your documentation and make a clear, concise case for why you believe your compensation should be adjusted. Highlight your contributions and any additional responsibilities you have taken on.
- Be open to feedback: Listen to your supervisor’s or HR representative’s response. They may provide insights into why there is a pay difference or what steps you can take to qualify for a raise.
- Consider negotiation: Be prepared to negotiate. If your employer acknowledges the discrepancy but cannot immediately adjust your salary, discuss potential timelines for a raise or other forms of compensation, such as bonuses or additional benefits.
- Seek alternatives: If the issue is not resolved to your satisfaction, consider exploring other job opportunities where your skills and experience will be appropriately valued.
Know your legal rights: Familiarize yourself with laws regarding pay equity, such as the Equal Pay Act and any relevant state laws in North Carolina. If you believe you are experiencing discrimination, consider seeking legal advice or contacting a relevant agency, such as the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). The NC Department of Labor accepts wage dispute claims and will open an investigation provided the claim meets certain criteria, which you can finds on their website.
Education and training in North Carolina
In North Carolina, paralegals are encouraged to meet specific educational requirements, especially if they wish to become certified through the North Carolina State Bar. Here are the key requirements:
North Carolina Certified Paralegal (NCCP) program: To become a North Carolina Certified Paralegal, you must meet one of the following education requirements:
- Completion of an American Bar Association (ABA)-approved paralegal studies program (classroom or online).
- Completion of a paralegal studies program at a qualified institution that consists of at least 18 semester credits of paralegal coursework.
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree in any field from an accredited institution plus a post-baccalaureate certificate in paralegal studies from a qualified institution.
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies from a qualified institution.
Certification exam: After meeting the educational requirements, you must pass the certification exam administered by the North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification.
Continuing education: To maintain certification, North Carolina Certified Paralegals must complete continuing legal education (CLE) requirements. This typically involves completing six hours of CLE every year, including one hour of professional responsibility (legal ethics).
Voluntary certification: While certification is not mandatory to work as a paralegal in North Carolina, becoming a North Carolina Certified Paralegal (NCCP) may enhance job prospects and demonstrate your commitment to the profession, especially in the eyes of your employer.
Cost of living in North Carolina and how it impacts salary
The cost of living in North Carolina is generally lower than the national average, which can make salaries in the state stretch further. Given the lower cost of living, the salaries in North Carolina can offer a comparable or better standard of living than higher nominal salaries in more expensive states. For example, a $50,000 salary in North Carolina can go further in terms of purchasing power than the same salary in a state with a high cost of living. Here’s a closer look at how the cost of living in NC and salaries compare to the national average:
Contributing factors:
Housing: One of the most significant factors contributing to North Carolina’s lower cost of living is housing. Home prices and rental rates in North Carolina are typically below the national average, though this can depend upon the city. For example, housing costs in Charlotte and Raleigh may be higher than in smaller towns.
Utilities and transportation: Utility costs (electricity, heating, cooling, water) and transportation expenses (gas, public transit) in North Carolina are also generally lower than the national average.
Groceries and healthcare: The cost of groceries and healthcare services in North Carolina is close to the national average, with some variations depending on the region.
Cities with the highest cost of living:
RentCafe says the cost of living in general is 5% lower than the national average in North Carolina. RentCafe says the primary city in the state that has a higher cost of living is Chapel Hill, at 4% higher than the national average. Durham is at 0%, or right at the national average. Other major cities list lower than the national average.
Cities with the lowest cost of living:
RentCafe’s list of major North Carolina cities with a cost of living lower than the national average consists of Asheville (2% lower), Raleigh (2% lower), Jacksonville (3% lower), Charlotte (3% lower), Fayetteville (6% lower) and Winston-Salem (6% lower). Several of these cities boast a larger quantity of paralegal levels of employment or opportunities, which is worth noting.
NC professional paralegal groups and associations
Active involvement in professional associations like the North Carolina Paralegal Association (NCPA) can provide networking opportunities, continuing education, and access to job postings that can influence career advancement and salary potential. Here are some associations for paralegals in NC:
North Carolina Paralegal Association (NCPA): NCPA is a self-governing organization run by paralegals for paralegals. The its educational and informational network, NCPA strives to help its members better assist the legal community in fulfilling its duty to their clients and the public.
North Carolina State Bar–Paralegal Division: The Paralegal Division of the North Carolina State Bar Association is open to qualified full-time paralegals, paralegal students and NCBA attorney members in North Carolina.
Raleigh-Wake Paralegal Association: The group was formed in 1978 with the purpose of enhancing professionalism and fraternity among legal assistants in the Wake County area. They hold events and offer scholarships to students.
This salary guide aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the salary landscape in North Carolina and key information regarding paralegal education and careers in the state. Use this guide as a starting point to make informed decisions about your career path through the legal justice system and gain an understanding of how to negotiate salary while you learn to set realistic expectations for your educational and professional future.