Cary vs Raleigh: Paralegal Salary (2026)
Compare paralegal salaries between Cary, NC and Raleigh, NC. All figures are 2026 estimates projected from BLS 2025 data.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Metric | Cary, NC | Raleigh, NC |
|---|---|---|
| Median Salary | $63,747 | $64,052▲ |
| Hourly Rate | $30.65 | $30.79▲ |
| Entry Level (P10) | $46,648▲ | $40,048 |
| 25th Percentile | $51,768▲ | $50,627 |
| 75th Percentile | $80,522▲ | $78,181 |
| Top Earner (P90) | $98,808▲ | $88,563 |
| Total Employed | 44 | 2,540▲ |
Verdict
Raleigh, NC offers better overall compensation for paralegals, winning 3 out of 4 metrics compared to Cary.
The salary gap between Cary and Raleigh is $305 (0.48%). Raleigh's median is -1.61% compared to the US national median of $65,097.
Salary Range Comparison
The full salary range (10th to 90th percentile) in Cary spans $52,160,Raleigh spans $48,515. Cary has a wider pay range, meaning more potential for high earners but also more variation.
Cost-of-Living Adjusted Comparison
After cost-of-living adjustment, Cary ($68,106 effective) pays 4.37% more than Raleigh ($65,255 effective).
Cost-of-living adjustment: salary × (100 / CoL index). Index of 100 = national average.
Which City Is Right for You?
Choose Cary if…
- ✓Better top-earner potential ($98,808)
- ✓Better purchasing power (CoL-adjusted: $68,106)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Choose Raleigh if…
- ✓Higher median salary ($64,052/year)
- ✓Larger job market (2,540 employed)
- ✓You prefer the North Carolina area and lifestyle
Historical Salary Growth Comparison
Based on BLS OEWS metropolitan area data, paralegal salaries in Cary grew 16.9% from 2024 to 2025, compared to 23.1% growth in Raleigh over the same period.
Cary, NC
$52,688 (2024) → $61,585 (2025)
Raleigh, NC
$50,260 (2019) → $61,880 (2025)
View Full Salary Data
Raleigh, NC
Frequently Asked Questions
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Written by Jessica Tran, JD
Career Analyst
Jessica Tran has 10 years of experience in paralegal studies. She specializes in corporate law and works with a law firm. She trains new paralegals in legal research and documentation.
Methodology & Data Source
All salary figures are 2026 projections based on BLS OEWS May 2025 data. A 3.51% CAGR (derived from 6-year national BLS trends) was applied to estimate current compensation. Cost-of-living adjustments use BEA Regional Price Parity data. Actual salaries vary by employer, certifications, and experience.
Data Sources & Methodology
Source: BLS, OEWS , released .
Compiled and verified by Jessica Tran, JD, a licensed paralegal with 10+ years of clinical experience. · View source data at BLS.gov