The minimum salary for teachers in North Carolina ranges from $39,000 to over $60,000, depending on experience, district supplements, and qualifications. Teacher pay across the state is influenced by multiple factors, including location, credentials, subject area, and years of service.
According to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI), the average base salary for public school teachers in North Carolina is approximately $55,561 as of 2025. However, local district supplements can raise total compensation significantly, especially in urban districts like Wake and Charlotte-Mecklenburg.
In this article, we’ll explore teacher pay in the Tar Heel State, including salary breakdowns, supplements, benefits, and how to start a teaching career in North Carolina.
North Carolina Teacher Salary Snapshot (2025)
| Category | Salary Range / Average |
|---|---|
| State Minimum Starting Salary | $39,000 |
| Average Public School Teacher Salary | $55,561 |
| 10% Lowest Earners | ~$41,000 |
| 10% Highest Earners | $70,000+ |
| Private School Teacher (Average) | ~$43,000 |
| Elementary School Teacher (Average) | $58,110 |
| Special Education Teacher (Average | $61,235 |
| Substitute Teacher (Average) | $31,800 |
| Teacher w/ Advanced Degree (Est.) | $60,000–$75,000+ |
Note: Total salary may vary depending on district-level supplements, extra duty roles, and certifications.
Statewide Teacher Pay Policies in North Carolina
North Carolina employs a state-mandated teacher salary schedule that sets minimum base salaries for educators based on two primary factors: years of teaching experience and highest degree earned. This schedule applies to all public school teachers across the state and is updated regularly by the North Carolina General Assembly in coordination with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI).
Base Salary Structure
The base salary is designed to ensure pay consistency across all 100 counties, regardless of local wealth or tax base. As of 2025, the base pay starts at $39,000 for entry-level teachers with a bachelor’s degree and increases incrementally each year. Teachers with 25+ years of experience can earn a base salary of approximately $54,000–$58,000 before local supplements.
Educators with advanced degrees receive a percentage increase over the base pay:
- Master’s Degree: 10% salary bump (as long as the degree is in a teaching-related field)
- Doctorate Degree: Additional compensation above the master’s-level tier
- National Board Certification: 12% salary increase added to the base salary
Note: These increases were reinstated in recent years after periods of uncertainty around advanced degree pay.
Local Salary Supplements
While the base schedule is consistent statewide, most school districts offer local salary supplements to attract and retain qualified teachers — particularly in competitive or high-cost-of-living areas. These supplements vary significantly by district and are funded through local property taxes and county-level budgets.
Some examples of district supplements:
- Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools: Up to $9,200 annually
- Wake County Public Schools: Between $6,000 and $8,000
- Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools: Roughly $5,500–$7,500
- Rural districts may offer as little as $500–$2,000
These supplements are crucial for teacher recruitment, particularly in wealthier or more urbanized counties that can afford to offer competitive packages.
Legislative Action and Budget Trends
Over the past five years, North Carolina lawmakers have approved moderate salary increases, often prioritizing early-career teachers. For example:
- Between 2020 and 2024, teachers with less than 15 years of experience saw the largest percentage-based pay raises.
- However, raises for veteran teachers (15–30+ years) have typically been smaller — in some years only 1–2%, leading to concerns about stagnating compensation later in an educator’s career.
Critics argue this creates a “salary plateau,” where mid- and late-career teachers earn only slightly more than newer colleagues. Education advocates and teacher unions continue to lobby for across-the-board raises that account for loyalty, mentorship roles, and inflation.
Bonuses and Incentive Programs
To address shortages and reward performance, the state and individual districts offer a variety of incentives layered on top of base pay:
Performance-Based Bonuses
- Some districts offer merit-based pay, which rewards teachers based on student growth, test scores, or principal evaluations.
- These bonuses can range from $1,000 to $5,000 annually, though eligibility and metrics vary widely.
- State pilot programs are exploring expanded models of growth-based compensation, especially in core subjects like reading and math.
Mentorship and Leadership Stipends
- North Carolina’s Beginning Teacher Support Program encourages experienced teachers to serve as mentors.
- Mentors may receive stipends of $500 to $1,500 per mentee, depending on the district.
- Other leadership stipends may be available for department chairs, instructional coaches, or teacher leaders in professional learning communities (PLCs).
High-Need Subject Stipends
- Teachers in hard-to-staff positions (e.g., math, science, special education, ESL, and CTE) are often eligible for targeted stipends or signing bonuses.
- These can range from $2,500 to $7,500, particularly in districts with ongoing vacancies.
- Some districts also provide relocation bonuses for high-need hires moving from out of state or from other industries.
Virtual and Blended Learning Bonuses
- In response to the expansion of digital education, some districts now offer stipends to teachers leading online-only or hybrid classrooms, especially in rural counties that leverage statewide virtual academies.
Factors That Impact Teacher Salaries in NC
Location
Districts with higher tax bases or additional local funding — like Wake County, Charlotte-Mecklenburg, and Chapel Hill-Carrboro — offer some of the most competitive salaries in the state.
Degree and Licensure
Teachers with a master’s degree earn 10% more than those with a bachelor’s. Holding a National Board Certification can add a 12% salary increase.
Experience
Salary increases with each year of experience, with step raises occurring annually up to 25+ years of service.
Subject Area
Teachers in high-demand fields (e.g., STEM, Special Education, ESL) may receive additional stipends — often ranging from $1,500 to $5,000 annually.
Type of School
Public school teachers generally earn more than those in private or charter schools, though some private institutions offer unique perks like housing, lower class sizes, or flexible curriculum.
Current Salary Ranges by Role
Teacher pay in North Carolina varies by role, experience level, and district funding. Below is a breakdown of average salaries and earning potential for key teaching positions across the state.
Elementary School Teachers
Elementary teachers in North Carolina earn an average salary of $58,110. Salaries typically range from $43,000 to $75,000, depending on experience, education level, and district-specific supplements. Teachers in urban areas like Raleigh or Charlotte often earn higher salaries due to local funding. Those with advanced degrees or National Board Certification may qualify for additional pay boosts.
Special Education Teachers
Special education teachers earn an average of $61,235 per year in North Carolina. Their salaries usually fall between $45,000 and $80,000+, with the top end reflecting decades of experience and high-need district incentives. Many districts provide stipends for managing IEPs or working with students who have complex needs. These roles are in high demand, often qualifying for recruitment bonuses or additional support.
Substitute Teachers
Substitute teachers in North Carolina earn an average of $31,800 annually, or about $15 per hour. Pay rates vary by district and whether the substitute is certified, long-term, or covering high-need subjects. Some long-term certified substitutes can earn up to $175 per day, especially when filling in for extended absences. Many districts now offer higher daily rates to improve sub availability amid ongoing shortages.
Teacher Pay by the Hour
On average, public school teachers in North Carolina earn between $34 and $38 per hour, based on a traditional 10-month contract. This estimate accounts for classroom instruction as well as unpaid time spent on grading, planning, and professional development. While not hourly employees, this breakdown offers insight into the value of teacher labor across the academic calendar. Additional roles like coaching or tutoring can supplement these earnings.
Highest Paying NC School Districts (2025)
| District | Avg. Salary (Incl. Supplement) |
|---|---|
| Wake County Schools | $61,000–$72,000 |
| Charlotte-Mecklenburg | $60,000–$70,000 |
| Durham Public Schools | $58,000–$68,000 |
| Chapel Hill-Carrboro | $65,000–$75,000 |
| Guilford County | $57,000–$67,000 |
How Much Do Teachers Make in North Carolina?
Teacher salaries in North Carolina are shaped by a combination of statewide base pay, local district supplements, and individual factors such as years of experience, certifications, and teaching assignments. As of 2025, the minimum salary for a beginning teacher with a bachelor’s degree is $39,000, per the state salary schedule. However, many districts add local salary supplements ranging from $2,000 to $9,000 annually, making the actual starting salary in more competitive areas significantly higher.
For example, teachers in Wake County, Charlotte-Mecklenburg, or Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools can earn $50,000 to $75,000+, depending on their credentials and time in the profession. Meanwhile, teachers in rural or underfunded districts may earn closer to the base amount but could receive benefits like relocation bonuses, housing stipends, or smaller class sizes. These differences stem from the wide variation in local tax bases and district budgets, and they play a major role in shaping teacher recruitment and retention across the state.
How Much Do Substitute Teachers Make in North Carolina?
Substitute teacher pay in North Carolina varies by district policy, assignment length, and certification status. On average, substitute teachers earn approximately $31,800 per year, which translates to about $15 per hour. Short-term substitutes typically make $100 to $130 per day, while long-term certified substitutes—especially those filling in for several weeks in core academic subjects—can earn as much as $150 to $175 per day.
Some districts, such as Wake County and Durham, offer tiered pay scales that reward substitutes for their level of education or licensure. Additionally, due to increased demand and occasional shortages, many schools have begun offering retention incentives or preferred placement lists to substitutes who accept assignments regularly or in high-need schools. While not full-time roles, substitute teaching can provide a flexible, consistent source of income for retired educators, recent graduates, or those exploring teaching as a long-term career.
How Much Do Elementary Teachers Make in North Carolina?
Elementary school teachers in North Carolina earn an average annual salary of $58,110, though pay varies widely depending on district-level supplements, experience, and credentials. Most salaries fall within the range of $43,000 to $75,000, with top earners often holding advanced degrees or National Board Certification. Teachers in well-funded districts, like Chapel Hill-Carrboro, frequently earn salaries at the higher end of the scale thanks to generous local supplements.
In contrast, teachers in rural or economically disadvantaged areas may earn closer to the state base salary, although they may benefit from smaller class sizes, supportive teaching environments, or housing incentives. Endorsements such as Reading Specialist or ESL certification can lead to additional compensation. Given North Carolina’s continued investment in literacy initiatives, elementary educators with specialized training are well-positioned to earn more and advance into instructional coaching or leadership roles over time.
How Much Do Teachers Make per Hour in North Carolina?
Although teachers in North Carolina are salaried employees, it’s helpful to calculate their approximate hourly wage for context. Based on a 10-month contract and a typical 40–45 hour workweek (which includes planning, grading, and after-hours work), the average teacher earns about $34 to $38 per hour. This reflects the broader workload beyond direct instruction and underscores the value of teacher labor in and out of the classroom.
Hourly compensation can vary depending on the teacher’s experience, subject matter, and additional responsibilities. Educators who take on coaching, extracurriculars, mentoring, or after-school programs often see their effective hourly earnings increase. While these additional duties require more time, they can significantly boost overall compensation and may lead to future administrative or leadership opportunities.
How Much Do Special Education Teachers Make in North Carolina?
Special education teachers in North Carolina are among the highest-paid classroom educators, with an average salary of $61,235. Their pay typically ranges from $45,000 to more than $80,000, with higher salaries awarded to those with advanced degrees, National Board Certification, or extensive experience. Because of the increased responsibility involved in working with students with disabilities, many districts offer stipends or bonuses for these roles, particularly when managing multiple IEPs or working in high-need schools.
These educators create and implement Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), coordinate with families and support staff, and often adapt instruction to meet behavioral and academic needs. Given the ongoing shortage of certified special education professionals across the state, many districts offer recruitment incentives, paid training, or continuing education support. For individuals passionate about inclusive education, this specialty not only offers financial advantages but also the opportunity to make a significant impact on students’ lives.
Additional Benefits for NC Teachers
- Health Insurance: Coverage through the State Health Plan with low-cost premiums.
- Retirement: Participation in the Teachers’ and State Employees’ Retirement System (TSERS) with defined benefits and supplemental 401(k) options.
- Paid Leave: At least 10 sick days, vacation days, and personal leave.
- Tuition Reimbursement: Support for advanced certifications, degrees, and CEUs.
- Paid Professional Development: Many districts offer stipends or per diem pay.
- Parental Leave: Maternity/paternity leave options and job protection.
- Mentorship & Coaching: New teacher support via the NC Beginning Teacher Support Program.
- Loan Forgiveness Programs: Federal and state incentives for teaching in low-income schools or high-need subjects.
Job Outlook for Teachers in North Carolina
North Carolina continues to face a persistent teacher shortage, particularly in high-need subject areas such as math, science, special education, and English as a Second Language (ESL). This shortage is being driven by several converging factors, including an aging workforce, increased teacher attrition, and rapid population growth in urban and suburban districts. According to projections from the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction, the state will need to hire thousands of new teachers annually through 2030 just to keep pace with demand. Rural and lower-income districts are especially affected, often struggling to attract and retain qualified educators due to limited resources and fewer local incentives.
In response, the state has strategically invested in recruitment and retention initiatives, including residency licensure programs, signing bonuses, tuition assistance, and enhanced mentorship for early-career teachers. Programs like the NC Teaching Fellows aim to attract new talent into high-demand areas by offering financial support and career development opportunities. With continued funding and policy support, the outlook for aspiring educators is optimistic — especially for those entering critical shortage fields or willing to work in underserved areas. For anyone considering a teaching career, North Carolina offers a stable job market, growing support systems, and an increasing number of entry points into the profession.
How to Become a Teacher in North Carolina
Becoming a licensed teacher in North Carolina involves several clear steps, from completing your education to applying for state certification. Whether you’re a recent college graduate or changing careers, the state offers traditional and alternative pathways to help you enter the classroom.
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
You’ll need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. If your degree isn’t in education, you can pursue alternative licensure pathways, such as lateral entry or residency programs.
2. Complete a Teacher Preparation Program
This program includes coursework in pedagogy, instructional methods, and classroom management. It also requires a student teaching experience to help you gain hands-on classroom practice.
3. Pass Required Exams
You must pass the Praxis or Pearson exams aligned with your intended grade level and subject area. These tests assess your content knowledge and teaching skills.
4. Apply for Licensure
Submit your licensure application to the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction (NCDPI). Be prepared to provide transcripts, test scores, and a background check.
5. Start Teaching
Once licensed, begin applying for jobs through school district portals or platforms like TeachNC. Public, charter, and private schools across the state are actively hiring, especially in high-need subject areas.
Ready to Teach in North Carolina?
Becoming a teacher in North Carolina means joining a stable profession that offers strong job security, competitive benefits, and the chance to make a difference every day. Whether you’re new to education or switching careers, there are clear pathways and statewide support systems designed to help you thrive.
