North Carolina: education overview
Average teacher salary $60,323 (2024-25), #43 of 51. Source
Public vs private schools
| Public | Private | |
|---|---|---|
| Schools | 2,716 | 700 |
| Students | 1,555,418 | 142,150 |
| Share of students | 92% | 8% |
Latest federal counts; public and private figures come from different school years, so the share is approximate.
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
Students, teachers, districts
- Public school districts
- 121
- Public school teachers (full-time equivalent)
- 99,980
- Public school students
- 1,555,418
Schools 2022-23Students 2024-25Teachers 2022-23Districts 2021-22
How teacher pay is structured
Regular districts generally serve K–12, so elementary and high school teachers normally use the same district teacher pay framework rather than separate grade-level district schedules. North Carolina requires a statewide teacher salary schedule, with optional district supplements, rather than separate elementary and high school scales; public-sector collective bargaining is prohibited.
Separate high school districts: noStatewide salary schedule: yesSource
For prospective educators
You'd be a good fit if you want a statewide salary schedule that districts supplement, large county systems, and a growing population.
A general summary, not advice. Pay and conditions vary by district.