In Raleigh, NC, Executive Assistants earn a median of $65,590 a year — about 11% below the U.S. median of $73,680. Among the 50 metros tracked here for this role, that ranks #29.
What that pay is worth in Raleigh
Local prices run 98 on the BEA cost-of-living index (U.S. = 100), so a $70,370 salary is about break-even with the national average ($71,691 adjusted).
Can Executive Assistants afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 — 5.4 times the average Executive Assistant salary, a stretch against the classic 3x rule of thumb. Median rent near $1,468/mo takes roughly 25% of gross pay — within the 30% comfort line.
The Executive Assistant pay ladder in Raleigh
Entry-level (10th percentile) Executive Assistants earn about $46,710; the top 10% reach $95,830 — a $49,120 spread, moderate for this field. Most of that gap comes down to experience, employer, and how hard you negotiate.
The Executive Assistant job market in Raleigh
Raleigh employs roughly 1,700 Executive Assistants. It’s a sizable local market to build a career in.
Compare Raleigh with other cities
See the full Executive Assistant salary by city ranking to weigh Raleigh against the other metros on both pay and cost-adjusted value, or use the cost-of-living calculator to compare any two cities directly.
Frequently asked questions
How much do Executive Assistants make in Raleigh?
The average Executive Assistant in Raleigh, NC earns about $70,370 per year, 4.5% below the national average of $73,680.
What is the take-home pay for Executive Assistants in Raleigh after taxes?
After federal and NC taxes, this $70,370 salary is worth about $56,036 a year - roughly $4,669 a month in take-home pay, an effective tax rate near 20%.
What do the highest-paid Executive Assistants earn in Raleigh?
The top 10% of Executive Assistants in Raleigh earn about $95,830 a year, versus about $46,710 for the bottom 10%.
Can Executive Assistants afford a home in Raleigh?
A typical Raleigh home runs about $377,800 - roughly 5.4x this salary, a stretch by the 3x rule, so budgeting discipline matters.