Preschool Teacher Salary in North Carolina
Preschool Teacher pay in North Carolina, explained
Preschool teachers in North Carolina earn a median of $35,710 per year ($17.17 per hour), which is 6% below the national median of $38,140. Entry-level workers earn around $28,700, while the most experienced preschool teachers reach about $47,530. Pay varies by employer, setting, and metro area within North Carolina.
Is $35,710 good pay in North Carolina?
Adjusted for North Carolina's cost of living (which runs 94% of the U.S. average), that $35,710 is worth about $37,858 in national buying power — ranking North Carolina #34 for real pay (vs #38 on the sticker number).
Preschool Teacher pay by experience in North Carolina
Preschool Teacher pay in neighboring states
| State | Median / yr | Real pay | vs NC |
|---|---|---|---|
| North Carolina (here) | $35,710 | $37,858 | — |
| Georgia | $43,920 | $45,611 | −$8,210 |
| Virginia | $37,140 | $36,734 | −$1,430 |
| South Carolina | $34,500 | $36,800 | +$1,210 |
| Tennessee | $34,280 | $37,314 | +$1,430 |
Preschool Teacher in North Carolina: FAQ
How much do preschool teachers make in North Carolina?
Preschool teachers in North Carolina earn a median of $35,710 per year ($17.17 per hour), compared with $38,140 nationally.
Does North Carolina pay preschool teachers well?
At $35,710, North Carolina pays 6% below the national median for preschool teachers. An estimated 18,370 work in the state.