North Carolina vs Virginia: Healthcare Job Market Comparison
Research Triangle vs. DC metro. Different healthcare ecosystems, comparable salaries.
North Carolina
$77,440
avg RN salary
- Cost of living
- 95.7
- Top state income tax
- 4.25%
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | North Carolina | Virginia |
|---|---|---|
| Avg RN salary (BLS May 2024) | $77,440 | $82,150 |
| Cost of living (100 = US avg) | 95.7 | 102.1 |
| State income tax (top rate) | 4.25% | 5.75% |
Salary figures are approximate, drawn from public sources including BLS.
Notable Health Systems
North Carolina
- • Duke Health
- • UNC Health
- • Atrium Health
- • Novant Health
Virginia
- • Inova Health
- • Sentara Healthcare
- • VCU Health
- • Carilion Clinic
Frequently Asked Questions
Which state pays nurses more, North Carolina or Virginia?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), registered nurses in Virginia earn an average of $82,150, compared to $77,440 in North Carolina. The gap is roughly $4,710 per year before adjusting for cost of living.
How does the cost of living compare between North Carolina and Virginia?
Using the MERIC Q4 2024 cost-of-living index (100 = national average), North Carolina is 95.7 and Virginia is 102.1. North Carolina (95.7) is the more affordable of the two, while Virginia (102.1) is more expensive. Housing is typically the largest driver of these differences.
Which state has a more favorable tax environment for healthcare providers?
North Carolina has a top state income tax rate of 4.25%, while Virginia's top rate is 5.75%. Always factor in property tax, sales tax, and local taxes before making a relocation decision. States with no income tax often offset through higher sales or property taxes.
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