CNC Machinist Jobs in Raleigh, NC

Raleigh, North Carolina$53,025 USD/yearFull-timeTech Hub
Updated: April 2026Expert reviewed|Data sourced from BLS, Glassdoor, and industry reports

About CNC Machinist Jobs in Raleigh

Looking for a CNC Machinist job in Raleigh? You're in the right place. This guide covers everything you need to know about working as a CNC Machinist 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 CNC Machinists. Many employers are actively looking for talent. Read on to learn how to land your next role.

CNC Machinist Salary in Raleigh

Entry Level
$34,340
Median
$53,025
Senior Level
$75,498

CNC Machinist 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

CNC ProgrammingMachine OperationBlueprint ReadingQuality InspectionSetup

CNC Machinist Job Market in Raleigh

Raleigh, NC is a major regional employment hub for CNC Machinist 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 CNC Machinist roles across various sectors. The market for CNC Machinist positions remains stable, with opportunities in both established companies and growing organizations.

Top Companies Hiring CNC Machinists in Raleigh

State of North CarolinaCity of RaleighGoTriangleDuke Energy

Major employers hiring CNC Machinists 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 CNC Machinists in Raleigh

Living in Raleigh as a CNC Machinist 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). Housing costs are manageable for CNC Machinist salaries in the area.

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

Commuting as a CNC Machinist 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 CNC Machinists in Raleigh: Downtown (Central business district with tech companies); Tech Park/Campus (Suburban office park developments). Downtown is particularly popular among CNC Machinist 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 CNC Machinists

The job outlook for CNC Machinists 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 CNC Programming, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Quality Inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average CNC Machinist salary in Raleigh, NC?

The average CNC Machinist salary in Raleigh, NC is $53,025 per year. Entry-level CNC Machinists typically start around $34,340, while experienced professionals can earn $75,498 or more. The national average for CNC Machinist roles is $52,500.

How many CNC Machinist jobs are available in Raleigh?

Raleigh has a strong job market with regular openings for CNC Machinist professionals. Major employers hiring CNC Machinists 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 CNC Machinists?

Raleigh is an excellent choice for CNC Machinists. 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 manufacturing professionals.

What skills are most in-demand for CNC Machinists in Raleigh?

Top skills for CNC Machinists in Raleigh include CNC Programming, Machine Operation, Blueprint Reading, Quality Inspection, Setup. Employers value both technical expertise and soft skills like communication and teamwork.

What is the cost of living for CNC Machinists 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 CNC Machinists 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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