Limited Data Available

This page is based on 2 salary submissions. For more accurate insights, we recommend viewing the national Ophthalmology overview or contributing your salary data.

Average Ophthalmologist Salary in North Carolina

As of October 14, 2025, an Ophthalmologist in North Carolina earns approximately $1,735,680 per year ($144,640 monthly). Based on an average 30-hour work week, this translates to about $1,113 per hour. Looking for a broader view? See the Ophthalmologist salary overview or compare nearby states below.

How Much Do Ophthalmologists Make in North Carolina?

From 2 verified physician salary submissions in North Carolina, SalaryDr is seeing total compensation ranging from $421,000 to $3,050,360, with top performers (90th percentile) earning up to $3,050,360 annually. Compared to the national median of $1,735,680, Ophthalmologist salaries in North Carolina are in line with the national median.

Bonuses, Hours Worked, and Job Satisfaction

In North Carolina, the salary progression for ophthalmologist physicians shows significant growth potential. Entry-level positions start at $421,000, while those with more than 10 years of experience earn a typical salary of $3,050,360 - a 625% increase.

Local Practice Settings and Employers in North Carolina

On average, base salary accounts for 97% of total compensation—about $1,677,680—with the remaining amount coming from bonuses, profit sharing, and incentives.

Cost of Living and Market Factors in North Carolina

North Carolina offers unique advantages for ophthalmologist physicians, including competitive local markets and quality of life benefits. The cost of living in North Carolina varies by region within the state.

Work-Life Balance in North Carolina

Local ophthalmologist physicians report 5.0/5 career satisfaction, with 100% of those surveyed saying they would choose this specialty again.

Salary Distribution

Distribution based on 2 verified physician salary submissions.

Median Salary: $1,735,680

Physician Satisfaction in Ophthalmology

Satisfaction Rating

5.0/5

Average satisfaction rating reported by Ophthalmology physicians (1-5 scale).

Would Choose Again

100%

Percentage of Ophthalmology physicians who would choose this specialty again.

Career Satisfaction

Physicians cite the variety of cases and patient relationships as most rewarding aspects of this specialty.

Primary Challenges

On-call demands, administrative burden, and work-life balance are cited as the top challenges.

Salary Comparison

Location Statistics

Average Salary

$1,735,680

Median Salary

$1,735,680

Salary Range

$421,000 - $3,050,360

National Comparison

National Average

$1,735,680

Difference

+0% vs National Average

Sample Size

2 local / 2 national reports

Ophthalmologist Salaries by City in North Carolina

Back to Ophthalmologist Overview →

Browse city-level salary data for ophthalmologist physicians in North Carolina. Click any city to see detailed compensation information for that location.

* Numbers indicate verified salary reports per city

Compare North Carolina to Nearby States

View All States →

See how Ophthalmology salaries in North Carolina compare to neighboring states.

Ophthalmology Market Insights: North Carolina

Local market conditions, cost of living, and opportunities for Ophthalmology physicians in North Carolina.

Cost of Living Analysis

Overall Cost Index:94% of national average
Housing Costs:88% of national average
Healthcare Costs:108% of national average
State Income Tax:Yes
Tax Burden:Medium
Salary Adjusted for Cost of Living:
$1,846,468
Higher cost of living reduces purchasing power by -6%

Major Healthcare Employers

1
Duke Health
Major healthcare employer in North Carolina
2
Atrium Health
Major healthcare employer in North Carolina
3
UNC Health
Major healthcare employer in North Carolina
4
Novant Health
Major healthcare employer in North Carolina
Career Tip: These health systems often offer competitive Ophthalmology positions with comprehensive benefits packages.

Market Opportunities

Academic Medicine

Teaching hospitals and medical schools offer Ophthalmology positions with research opportunities.

Private Practice

Established and startup practices seeking Ophthalmology physicians with partnership potential.

Locum Tenens

High-demand temporary positions offering flexibility and competitive hourly rates.

Key Market Factors for Ophthalmology in North Carolina

Advantages:

  • • Below-average cost of living
  • • Multiple major healthcare employers
  • • Growing demand for Ophthalmology services
  • • Established medical community

Considerations:

  • • Malpractice insurance requirements
  • • State licensing and credentialing process
  • • Competition from established practices

Considering a move to North Carolina?

Compare Ophthalmology salaries across different locations and practice settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about physician salaries in Ophthalmology in North Carolina.

Data Source: All salary information is based on verified submissions from practicing physicians and is updated regularly to reflect current market conditions.

How to Transition to Ophthalmology in North Carolina

Complete guide for physicians looking to transition careers or relocate to Ophthalmology in North Carolina.

6 Steps6 Months
1

Assess Your Current Position

Evaluate your current specialty, compensation, job satisfaction, and career goals. Identify specific reasons for wanting to transition and what you hope to achieve.

2

Research Target Opportunities

Investigate Ophthalmology opportunities in North Carolina, including salary ranges, practice settings, required qualifications, and market demand.

Learn more →
3

Identify Skill Gaps

Compare your current qualifications with requirements for your target role. Identify any additional training, certifications, or experience needed for a successful transition.

4

Network with Professionals

Connect with Ophthalmology physicians in North Carolina through medical associations, conferences, and professional networks. Conduct informational interviews to gain insights.

5

Develop Transition Plan

Create a timeline for your transition including any required training, licensing requirements, financial planning for potential income changes, and family considerations.

6

Execute Your Transition

Begin applying for positions, complete any required training, and manage the logistics of your career change including contract negotiations and relocation if necessary.

Professional Tip: This guide provides general recommendations. Always consult with career advisors, mentors, and legal professionals for personalized advice specific to your situation.

Help Build Better Physician Salary Data

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About Our Data

Our salary data is based on anonymous submissions from practicing physicians across the United States. We verify and clean the data to ensure accuracy and remove outliers.

Last updated: October 14, 2025