Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, North Carolina$106,050 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About Aerospace Engineer Jobs in Raleigh

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

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

Aerospace Engineer Salary in Raleigh

Entry Level
$68,680
Median
$106,050
Senior Level
$150,995

Aerospace Engineer salaries in Raleigh are in line with national averages, offering competitive compensation for the region.

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

Required Skills

AerodynamicsCADSystems EngineeringTestingPropulsion

Aerospace Engineer Job Market in Raleigh

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

Top Companies Hiring Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh

State of North CarolinaCity of RaleighGoTriangleDuke Energy

Major employers hiring Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh include State of North Carolina, City of Raleigh, GoTriangle, Duke Energy. Many companies offer competitive benefits including comprehensive healthcare, and professional development opportunities.

Cost of Living for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh

Living in Raleigh as a Aerospace Engineer means navigating a cost of living that's slightly above the national average. Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month (17% below the national average). At median Aerospace Engineer salary, housing is quite affordable at 17% of gross income, leaving room for savings and lifestyle spending.

101
Cost Index (100=avg)
$1.5K
Avg Rent/Month
Yes
Tech Hub
Tier 2
Market Size

Commuting as a Aerospace Engineer in Raleigh

Raleigh 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 Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among Aerospace Engineer 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 Aerospace Engineers

The job outlook for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh is stable. While not experiencing rapid growth, the field maintains steady demand with consistent opportunities for qualified professionals. Raleigh's growing economy creates new positions regularly, often with less competition than coastal tech hubs. In-demand skills include Aerodynamics, CAD, Systems Engineering, Testing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average Aerospace Engineer salary in Raleigh, NC?

The average Aerospace Engineer salary in Raleigh, NC is $106,050 per year. Entry-level Aerospace Engineers typically start around $68,680, while experienced professionals can earn $150,995 or more. The national average for Aerospace Engineer roles is $105,000.

How many Aerospace Engineer jobs are available in Raleigh?

Raleigh has a strong job market with regular openings for Aerospace Engineer professionals. Major employers hiring Aerospace Engineers include State of North Carolina, City of Raleigh, GoTriangle, Duke Energy. The Technology and Biotechnology sectors drive much of the demand in this market.

Is Raleigh a good city for Aerospace Engineers?

Raleigh is an excellent choice for Aerospace Engineers. As a major metro area, it offers abundant opportunities and competitive salaries. The cost of living is reasonable compared to major coastal cities. The city's technology industry creates strong demand for engineering professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh?

Top skills for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh include Aerodynamics, CAD, Systems Engineering, Testing, Propulsion. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh?

Raleigh's cost of living is near the national average (101% of baseline). Average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment is approximately $1,500/month. Purchasing power in Raleigh is comparable to the national average, with salaries appropriately scaled to local costs.

How is the commute for Aerospace Engineers in Raleigh?

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

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