Physical Scientists, All Other Salary in North Carolina

Other physical scientists in North Carolina earn the most in Durham (average $129,060 a year) and the least in Asheville ($108,670), across the 2 North Carolina metro areas we cover. Statewide, BLS puts the other physical scientists average at $114,340 and the median at $110,030 for 650 workers. The U.S. average for this job is $129,230.

Physical Scientists, All Other average salary by city in North Carolina

Durham$129,060
Asheville$108,670

Pay, take-home pay and cost of living

City	Average	Median	25th pct.	Take-home*	Cost of living
Durham	$129,060	$128,380	$105,480	$94,838	98
Asheville	$108,670	$100,690	$76,210	$81,452	97

*Average salary after federal and state taxes for a single filer. Cost of living: BEA price parity, U.S. = 100.

Physical Scientists, All Other salary in other states

Physical Scientists, All Other salary by city and state

More about pay in North Carolina

Sources and how to read this page

Wages: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025 estimates for metropolitan areas. SOC code 19-2099.
U.S. and statewide figures: BLS OEWS national and state estimates, May 2025, every employer including rural areas.
Cost of living: Bureau of Economic Analysis regional price parities (RPP), 2024; 100 = U.S. average.

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