Controller Jobs in Durham, NC

Durham, North Carolina$132,300 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Controller Jobs in Durham

Looking for a Controller job in Durham? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a Controller in Durham, NC.

We'll show you what you can expect to earn. We'll also share which companies are hiring. Plus, you'll learn about the cost of living and how to get started in your job search.

Durham has a strong job market for Controllers. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

Controller Salary in Durham

Entry Level
$83,300
Median
$132,300
Senior Level
$191,590

Controller salaries in Durham are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

Purchasing power in Durham is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

Required Skills

Financial ReportingGAAPTeam ManagementInternal ControlsERP Systems

Controller Job Market in Durham

Durham, NC is a growing job market with increasing opportunities for Controller professionals. Though smaller than coastal metros, Durham offers focused opportunities and often better work-life balance. While Technology leads the local economy, there's growing demand for Controller roles across various sectors. The market for Controller positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring Controllers in Durham

City of DurhamDurham Public SchoolsDuke Energy

Major employers hiring Controllers in Durham include City of Durham, Durham Public Schools, Duke Energy. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Controllers in Durham

Living in Durham as a Controller means navigating a cost of living that's close to the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month (22% below the national average). At median Controller salary, housing is quite affordable at 13% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending. Suburban apartments average $1,100/month, offering significant savings with slightly longer commutes.

98
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.4K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 3
Market Size

Commuting as a Controller in Durham

Durham Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute time is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services. Consider living close to your workplace. Since transit options are limited, consider living close to your workplace or negotiating flexible hours to avoid peak traffic.

Best neighborhoods for Controllers in Durham: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Controller professionals due to proximity to major employers and urban amenities.

Tax Considerations in North Carolina

North Carolina has moderate state income taxes. When evaluating offers, consider total compensation including benefits, not just base salary. Local cost of living typically has more impact on your finances than state tax differences.

Career Outlook for Controllers

The job outlook for Controllers in Durham is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. While the market is smaller, Durham offers opportunities for those seeking specialized roles or better work-life balance. In-demand skills include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Controller salary in Durham, NC?

The average Controller salary in Durham, NC is $132,300 per year. Entry-level Controllers typically start around $83,300, while experienced professionals can earn $191,590 or more. The national average for Controller roles is $135,000.

How many Controller jobs are available in Durham?

Durham has a growing job market with steady opportunities for Controller professionals. Major employers hiring Controllers include City of Durham, Durham Public Schools, Duke Energy. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Durham a good city for Controllers?

Durham is an excellent choice for Controllers. While not as large as coastal metros, it offers solid opportunities and often better work-life balance. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for finance & accounting professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Controllers in Durham?

Top skills for Controllers in Durham include Financial Reporting, GAAP, Team Management, Internal Controls, ERP Systems. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Controllers in Durham?

Durham's cost of living is near the national average (98% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,400/month. Purchasing power in Durham is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Controllers in Durham?

Durham Limited public transit options; car recommended for most commutes. The average commute is 25 minutes. Research employer-specific shuttle services.

More Finance & Accounting Jobs in Durham