The High Point, NC Career Guide for Construction Managers

This guide is for the professional who’s done the homework. You’re not looking for a glossy brochure; you want the real numbers, the local dynamics, and the practical path forward. High Point, North Carolina, is a manufacturing and logistics hub with a unique housing market and a steady demand for construction management. Whether you’re moving from Raleigh or relocating from the Midwest, this is your data-driven playbook.

The Salary Picture: Where High Point Stands

First, let’s talk numbers, because they tell the story of the local market. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the North Carolina Department of Commerce, Construction Managers in the High Point metropolitan area are paid competitively, slightly below the national average but with a lower cost of living that makes it work.

• Median Salary: $105,840/year
• Hourly Rate: $50.88/hour
• National Average: $108,210/year
• Jobs in Metro: 232
• 10-Year Job Growth: 8%

The 8% growth is key. It’s solid, not explosive, reflecting a stable market rather than a boom-and-bust cycle. The 232 jobs tell you this isn’t a massive metro like Charlotte, but it’s a dedicated, established market. You’re not competing with thousands of candidates, but the specialized roles are there for those with experience.

Experience-Level Breakdown

While local data for every level is scarce, we can extrapolate from national averages and adjust for High Point’s market profile (a regional hub, not a primary coastal metro). The following table provides a realistic salary progression based on BLS national data, calibrated for High Point’s position.

Experience Level	National Average (BLS)	High Point Adjusted Estimate	Typical Responsibilities
Entry-Level	$68,000 - $75,000	$65,000 - $72,000	Assistant PM, Project Engineer, field coordination under supervision.
Mid-Career	$92,000 - $105,000	$88,000 - $102,000	Runs $1M-$10M projects independently, manages subcontractors, budgets.
Senior	$115,000 - $135,000	$110,000 - $130,000	Manages large, complex projects ($15M+), senior client liaison, risk management.
Expert/Executive	$150,000+	$145,000+	Executive leadership, multi-project oversight, business development, strategic planning.

Insider Tip: In High Point, a “Senior” role often means you’re the top PM on a local project for a regional firm. The jump to “Expert” typically requires moving into a divisional or corporate office, often located in the broader Triad (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Burlington).

Comparison to Other NC Cities

High Point sits in a sweet spot. It’s more affordable than the primary metros but offers more opportunity than smaller towns.

City	Median Salary	Cost of Living (Index)	Key Market Drivers
High Point	$105,840	92.7	Furniture, logistics, residential growth, healthcare expansion
Raleigh	$118,000	105.1	Tech, biotech, massive university and government projects
Charlotte	$115,500	104.5	Finance, banking, major sports/arena projects, skyscrapers
Asheville	$98,000	108.9	Tourism, hospitality, high-end custom residential, renovation
Wilmington	$95,000	101.2	Port expansions, coastal residential, military building

Analysis: High Point pays less than Raleigh or Charlotte, but the cost of living is significantly lower. You get more purchasing power here, especially if you’re moving from a higher-cost coastal region.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

A median salary of $105,840 sounds solid, but what’s the monthly reality? Let’s run the numbers for a single filer with standard deductions.

Monthly Budget Breakdown (Estimate):

• Gross Monthly Pay: $8,820
• Estimated Taxes (Federal, State, FICA ~28%): -$2,470
• Net Take-Home Pay: $6,350
• Average 1BR Rent in High Point: -$1,042
• Remaining for Utilities, Car, Food, Savings: $5,308

With over $5,300 left after rent and taxes, you have substantial discretionary income. The Cost of Living Index of 92.7 (where the US average is 100) means your dollar stretches further. Groceries, utilities, and transportation are all below the national average.

Can You Afford to Buy a Home?

Yes, unequivocally. This is High Point’s biggest advantage for a professional earning the median salary.

• High Point Median Home Price: ~$285,000
• 20% Down Payment: $57,000
• Mortgage (Principal & Interest, 30-year fixed @ 6.5%): ~$1,440/month
• Property Tax & Insurance (Estimate): ~$450/month
• Total Monthly Housing Payment: ~$1,890

At $1,890/month, a home is significantly more affordable than in Raleigh (median home price $450k) or Charlotte ($400k). Your take-home pay of $6,350 would leave $4,460 for all other living expenses and savings—a very comfortable margin. For a dual-income household, it becomes even easier.

Where the Jobs Are: High Point's Major Employers

The job market here is dominated by furniture manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. Construction managers are needed to build and maintain these facilities, as well as the city’s growing residential and commercial base.

1. Hanesbrands Inc.: A global apparel manufacturer headquartered in Winston-Salem but with significant facilities in the Triad. They regularly renovate and build out distribution centers and office spaces. Look for project management roles tied to industrial and logistics construction.

2. Piedmont Triad International Airport (GSO): While the airport is in Greensboro, its logistics and warehouse district straddles the High Point border. The ongoing expansion of cargo facilities (serving Amazon and others) creates steady demand for commercial construction managers.

3. High Point Regional Health (part of UNC Health): A major employer and healthcare anchor. They have ongoing projects ranging from clinic build-outs to potential hospital expansions. This is a source for healthcare construction specialist roles.

4. Furniture Manufacturers (e.g., GuildMaster, Ashley Furniture, numerous others): The “Furniture Capital of the World” is a living ecosystem. Factories, showrooms, and distribution centers are constantly being updated. A manager with experience in light industrial or manufacturing facility construction is highly valued.

5. City of High Point Government: The city manages public works projects, including road expansions, public safety buildings, and park facilities. Public sector jobs often offer great benefits and stability.

6. Logistics & Distribution Giants (FedEx, UPS, Amazon): The Interstate 40 and 85 corridor is a logistics superhighway. These companies are constantly building new fulfillment and sorting centers. A high-volume project manager with a track record in logistics facility construction can command a premium.

7. Large General Contractors: Regional firms like B.L. England (based in nearby Archdale) and R.J. Reynolds (Winston-Salem) are major players. They handle large commercial, institutional, and industrial projects across the Triad.

Hiring Trends: The trend is toward specialized experience. A manager who understands the specific needs of furniture manufacturing (e.g., high-bay warehousing, clean rooms) or healthcare (infection control, MEP systems) will see more opportunities and higher pay than a generalist.

Getting Licensed in NC

North Carolina requires a license for projects over $30,000. The process is managed by the North Carolina Licensing Board for General Contractors (NCLBGC).

1. Examination: You must pass the NASCLA Accredited Examination for Commercial General Building Contractors. This is a rigorous, 120-question test covering project management, estimating, and NC laws.
2. Experience: You must prove 4 years of experience as a foreman, supervisor, or contractor. This is non-negotiable.
3. Financials: You need to prove a net worth of at least $10,000 (for unlimited building license) or $5,000 (for limited building license).
4. Bond & Insurance: You must obtain a surety bond ($12,500 for unlimited license) and provide proof of liability insurance.

Timeline & Cost:

• Study Time: 2-4 months of consistent study.
• Exam Fee: ~$80
• Application Fee: $250
• Bond & Insurance: Variable, but budget $1,000 - $3,000 for first-year costs.
• Total Time to Licensure: 4-7 months from start to finish.

Insider Tip: Many employers in High Point will sponsor your exam and cover licensing costs if you commit to staying with the firm for a set period. It’s a common practice in the industry.

Best Neighborhoods for Construction Managers

Your choice of neighborhood will impact your commute, lifestyle, and budget. High Point isn’t a dense city; it’s more of a collection of distinct areas.

Neighborhood	Vibe & Commute	Rent Estimate (2BR)	Best For...
Downtown High Point	Walkable, revitalizing, closer to restaurants and the new park. 10-15 min drive to most jobs.	$1,300 - $1,600	The professional who wants an urban feel and a short commute. Younger, active crowd.
West End	Historic, established, tree-lined streets. Quieter, more residential. 15-20 min commute.	$1,200 - $1,500	Managers with families or who prefer a classic, suburban atmosphere. Great schools.
North Main	Affordable, diverse, and convenient. Close to shopping centers and I-85 access. 10-25 min commute.	$1,000 - $1,300	Budget-conscious professionals who prioritize location and accessibility over luxury.
Uptown (Furniture Market area)	The epicenter of the furniture industry. Can be busy during Market weeks (biannually). 5-15 min commute.	$1,250 - $1,550	Someone who works for a furniture manufacturer or a GC that serves the market. Walkable to work.
Southwest High Point	More suburban, near major retail (Hanes Mall). Longer commutes to industrial parks on the north side.	$900 - $1,200	Those who want more square footage and a family-oriented community.

Insider Tip: Avoid areas with “High Point” in the name but are actually outside city limits, like “High Point Estates.” Stick to the official city boundaries for accurate commute times and school districts.

The Long Game: Career Growth

Stagnation is a risk in a market like High Point. To grow your salary beyond the median, you need to specialize.

• Specialty Premiums:

  • Healthcare Construction: Can add a 10-15% premium due to stringent codes and infection control requirements.
  • Industrial/Warehouse (Amazon/Logistics): High-volume, fast-track projects. Premium of 5-10%.
  • Historic Renovation: Niche but valuable in a city with a historic core. Less of a direct salary premium, but builds a unique portfolio.

• Advancement Paths:

  1. Vertical: Senior PM → Project Executive → VP of Construction.
  2. Lateral: Move from a GC to a large owner (like Hanesbrands) as an in-house facilities manager. Often better work-life balance.
  3. Entrepreneurial: Start your own small GC firm targeting residential and small commercial projects. The market supports it, but it’s high-risk.

• 10-Year Outlook: The 8% job growth is steady. The furniture industry will remain the core, but watch for growth in healthcare and logistics. Being in the Triad means you can also tap into the larger Greensboro and Winston-Salem markets without moving, giving you a wider job pool than a single city would suggest.

The Verdict: Is High Point Right for You?

High Point is a pragmatic choice for a construction manager. It’s not the most glamorous city, but it’s a workhorse market with a low cost of living and a clear path to homeownership.

Pros	Cons
Excellent cost of living. Your salary goes much further.	Smaller job market. Fewer total jobs than Raleigh or Charlotte.
Homeownership is highly affordable.	Can feel like a suburb. Lacks the density and cultural scene of a major city.
Stable, specialized industries (furniture, logistics, healthcare).	Limited nightlife and dining compared to larger metros.
Central location. Easy to access other NC cities.	Car-dependent. Public transit is limited.
Less competition. You’re often a bigger fish in a smaller pond.	Economic tied to furniture. A downturn in that industry can ripple.

Final Recommendation

High Point is right for you if:

• You prioritize financial stability and homeownership over urban amenities.
• You have or are willing to develop specialized experience (furniture, industrial, healthcare).
• You’re a mid-career professional looking to stand out without competing in a saturated market.

High Point is not for you if:

• You crave the energy of a major city with diverse cultural and nightlife.
• You’re a recent graduate with no experience (the market is small and competitive for entry-level).
• Your career goals are tied exclusively to the tech or biotech sectors.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to be licensed to work as a Construction Manager in High Point?
A: Not to manage a project for a licensed GC, but you typically need a license if you’re acting as the prime contractor or running your own firm. Many senior PM roles will require you to have or be pursuing a license.

Q: How is the commute in High Point?
A: Very manageable. The average commute is under 20 minutes. Traffic is minimal compared to larger cities, but note that during the biannual High Point Market (April & October), traffic around the Uptown and downtown areas can be heavily congested.

Q: What’s the demand for residential vs. commercial construction?
A: Both are steady. Residential is growing due to affordability attracting new residents. Commercial is driven by the furniture industry and logistics. Commercial typically offers higher salaries for managers.

Q: Are there union opportunities?
A: Limited. North Carolina is a right-to-work state, and union presence is not strong in construction. Most contractors are open-shop. Your pay and benefits are typically negotiated directly with the employer.

Q: How do I network in a smaller market?
A: Join the Triad Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC). Attend the High Point Market events (even if you don’t work in furniture, it’s a major networking hub). The local business community is tight-knit; word of mouth is powerful.