North Carolina · BLS OEWS May 2025
The highest paying trades in North Carolina
Seven skilled trades, ranked by what they actually pay in North Carolina. Elevator Installers lead at a $107,700 median, and our 10-year model puts that path $659,844 ahead of the average college route. Every number is BLS data; every trade links to its full state breakdown.
Reviewed by Brad Zemke, third-generation tradesman, 20+ years in the field.
| # | Trade | Median | Per hour | 10-yr edge vs college |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elevator Installer | $107,700 | $51.78/hr | $659,844 |
| 2 | Lineworker | $77,270 | $37.15/hr | $415,069 |
| 3 | Aircraft Mechanic | $76,980 | $37.01/hr | $413,249 |
| 4 | Wind Turbine Technician | $66,380 | $31.91/hr | $323,628 |
| 5 | Diesel Mechanic | $57,490 | $27.64/hr | $221,525 |
| 6 | HVAC Technician | $57,260 | $27.53/hr | $220,903 |
| 7 | Plumber | $57,080 | $27.44/hr | $188,637 |
| 8 | Electrician | $56,800 | $27.31/hr | $183,979 |
| 9 | CDL Truck Driver | $51,530 | $24.77/hr | $205,926 |
| 10 | Welder | $50,590 | $24.32/hr | $179,312 |
| 11 | Heavy Equipment Operator | $49,310 | $23.71/hr | $143,796 |
| 12 | Carpenter | $49,100 | $23.61/hr | $139,789 |
| 13 | Auto Mechanic | $48,200 | $23.17/hr | $149,579 |
"10-yr edge" = cumulative net earnings advantage over the average bachelor's path after 10 years, per our documented model. Elevator installer pay is real, but union apprenticeship entry is competitive.
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