Accountants and Auditors Salary in Durham, NC

BLS Occupational Employment & Wage Statistics • May 2025 • Durham-Chapel Hill, NC

Median annual salary $83,990 +2.8% vs national
Median hourly $40.38
10th percentile $59,280
90th percentile $145,060
Employed locally 3,150
National median $81,680

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Accountants and Auditors
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    In Durham, NC, accountants and auditors earn a median annual salary of $83,990, which is slightly higher than the national median for this occupation at $81,680. This local median salary surpasses the area's median household income of $81,017, indicating that individuals in this profession generally earn more than the typical household in Durham. The hourly rate for accountants and auditors in the region stands at $40.38, reflecting a competitive earning potential within the industry. With an estimated employment of 3,150 positions, accounting and auditing roles are significant contributors to the local economy, particularly given the low unemployment rate of 3.20%.

    The earnings for entry-level accountants and auditors in Durham start around the 10th percentile mark at $59,280 annually, while those in the 25th percentile earn approximately $66,130. As experience accumulates, wages increase significantly, with experienced professionals reaching the 75th percentile earning up to $110,260 per year. At the higher end of the spectrum, accountants and auditors in the 90th percentile make about $145,060 annually. The wage disparity between entry-level and seasoned workers is driven by factors such as experience, education level, specialization within accounting or auditing fields, and the size and financial stature of the employing organization. As professionals advance their careers, they often gain additional skills and responsibilities that justify higher compensation levels.

    Salary percentile breakdown

    10th
    $59,280
    25th
    $66,130
    50th (median)
    $83,990
    75th
    $110,260
    90th
    $145,060

    Durham economic context

    Unemployment rate 3.20% 2024 annual avg • BLS LAUS
    Median household income $81,017 2023 • Census ACS
    Accountants and Auditors salary vs area income 104% Median Accountants and Auditors salary is 4% above the area median household income

    Frequently asked questions

    How much do Accountants and Auditors make per hour in Durham?

    The median hourly wage for Accountants and Auditors in Durham, NC is $40.38, based on BLS OEWS 2025 data. Top earners (90th percentile) make $73.51 or more per hour.

    Is Durham above or below average for Accountants and Auditors salaries?

    The median Accountants and Auditors salary in Durham, NC is 2.8% above the national median of $81,680. The national figure is from BLS OEWS 2025 data covering all US metropolitan areas.

    What is the entry-level salary for Accountants and Auditors in Durham?

    Entry-level Accountants and Auditors (10th percentile) earn around $59,280 per year in Durham, NC. The 25th percentile — typically workers with 1–3 years of experience — earn approximately $66,130.