Human Resources Specialist in High Point, NC

The Salary Picture: Where High Point Stands

As a local, I can tell you High Point’s job market for Human Resources Specialists is steady but modest. The median salary of $66,168/year is a solid starting point, but understanding the local context is key. This figure sits slightly below the national average of $67,650/year, which reflects the city’s lower cost of living. The hourly equivalent is $31.81/hour, a rate that provides a comfortable living in the Piedmont Triad if managed well. With 232 jobs in the metro area and a 10-year job growth of 8%, the market isn’t exploding, but it offers stability and gradual opportunity, especially for those who specialize.

Here’s a more granular look at what you can expect based on experience, which is a more reliable benchmark than the overall median:

Experience Level	Typical Title in High Point	Est. Salary Range (Annual)
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)	HR Assistant, Coordinator	$48,000 - $58,000
Mid-Level (3-7 yrs)	HR Generalist, Specialist	$60,000 - $75,000
Senior-Level (8-15 yrs)	Senior HR Generalist, HR Manager	$75,000 - $95,000
Expert/Leadership	HR Director, VP of HR	$95,000 - $130,000+

Insider Tip: The biggest salary jumps in High Point come from moving into the manufacturing sector or specializing in benefits administration. Generalist roles in small-to-mid-sized firms often cap out around $75k, unless you’re in a directorship at a larger company.

When comparing to other North Carolina cities, High Point offers a distinct value proposition. It’s not a high-flying salary market like the Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham) or the banking hub of Charlotte, but the lower cost of living makes your paycheck go further.

North Carolina City	Median HR Salary	Cost of Living Index (US Avg=100)	Take-Home Power
High Point	$66,168	92.7	High
Charlotte	$72,000	98.5	Moderate
Raleigh	$75,000	104.2	Moderate
Greensboro	$67,500	94.5	High
Asheville	$68,000	110.1	Low

In the Triad, High Point’s salary is competitive with Greensboro, but you’re paying less in rent. Compared to the major metros, you sacrifice top-tier salary for a significantly lower living cost and a more manageable, less congested lifestyle.

The Real Take-Home: After Taxes and Rent

Let’s get down to brass tacks. A salary of $66,168 in High Point, NC, is very manageable. As a single filer, your estimated take-home pay (after federal, state, and FICA taxes) would be approximately $50,500 annually, or about $4,208/month. This is a conservative estimate, as North Carolina has a flat state income tax rate.

With the average 1-bedroom rent in High Point at $1,042/month, here’s a realistic monthly budget breakdown for an HR Specialist:

Expense Category	Estimated Monthly Cost	Notes
Net Pay (After Taxes)	$4,208	Base take-home
Rent (1BR)	$1,042	Average for the metro area
Utilities (Elec, Gas, Internet)	$180	Varies by season; older homes cost more
Car Payment & Insurance	$450	Essential; public transit is limited
Groceries	$300	Competitive with national averages
Health Insurance (pre-tax)	$200	If employer covers a portion
Retirement (401k @ 5%)	$276	Pre-tax; strongly encouraged
Discretionary Spending	$1,760	Left for dining, entertainment, savings, debt

This leaves a substantial buffer for savings, student loans, or lifestyle. The key takeaway: you don’t need to live paycheck to paycheck on a median HR salary here.

Can they afford to buy a home? Absolutely. This is High Point’s biggest advantage. The median home price in the metro area is around $265,000. With a 20% down payment ($53,000), a 30-year mortgage at 6.5% would have a monthly payment of roughly $1,350 (including taxes and insurance). This is only about $300 more than the average rent. For someone earning $66,168, a mortgage is very achievable with disciplined saving. A dual-income household makes it even easier.

The Where the Jobs Are: High Point's Major Employers

High Point’s economy is anchored in furniture, manufacturing, and logistics, but there’s a growing healthcare and education sector. HR roles are concentrated in these flagship employers. Here’s a local’s guide to who’s hiring:

1. Hanesbrands Inc.: A global apparel giant headquartered right here. They hire HR Specialists for their large manufacturing and distribution footprint. Hiring Trend: Steady, with a focus on talent acquisition for their factory and corporate roles. They offer strong benefits and are deeply involved in the community.
2. The City of High Point: As the municipal government, they are a significant employer. HR roles here focus on public sector compliance, recruitment for police/fire, and benefits administration. Hiring Trend: Consistent but slow; openings are often filled internally first. Watch the NC government job boards closely.
3. High Point Regional Health (Part of UNC Health): The major local hospital system. They need HR Specialists specifically for healthcare compliance, credentialing, and managing a large, diverse workforce. Hiring Trend: Growing, driven by expansion and the ongoing healthcare labor shortage. Specialization in healthcare HR is a premium skill.
4. Harris Teeter (Kroger): Their corporate division has a major presence in the Triad. They hire for HR roles supporting their grocery distribution centers and regional offices. Hiring Trend: Active hiring for logistics-focused HR, especially in employee relations for warehouse environments.
5. Furniture brands (e.g., Ashley Furniture, Pier 1 Imports HQ): While the industry has consolidated, several national furniture brands have significant operations or headquarters in the Triad. Hiring Trend: Niche. Look for roles in corporate HR for these companies, which often have unique needs in design, sales, and manufacturing.
6. Guilford County Schools: While based in Greensboro, it’s a major employer for High Point residents. HR roles here are in public education, focusing on teacher recruitment and compliance. Hiring Trend: High demand, especially for specialists who understand K-12 personnel laws.

Getting Licensed in NC

North Carolina does not require state-specific licensure for Human Resources Specialists. The industry is governed by professional certifications, not government boards. However, for credibility and career advancement, certain certifications are highly recommended and often expected for mid-to-senior roles.

The key organizations are:

• SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management): Offers the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) and SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional).
• HRCI (HR Certification Institute): Offers the aPHR, PHR, and SPHR.

Timeline to Get Started:

1. Eligibility: For the PHR or SHRM-CP, you typically need 1-2 years of HR experience. For the SPHR or SHRM-SCP, 3-7+ years. Your mileage will vary based on your specific duties.
2. Study: Most candidates spend 2-3 months studying. Local study groups exist through the Triad SHRM chapter (TSHRM). They meet in Greensboro and are a great resource.
3. Exam & Cost: The exam fee is roughly $395 - $495 for SHRM certifications and $395 - $410 for HRCI exams, depending on membership.
4. Maintenance: Certifications must be renewed every 3 years, requiring continuing education credits (75 for SHRM, 60 for HRCI).

Insider Tip: The local Triad SHRM chapter is active and invaluable. Attending a meeting in Greensboro (just a 15-minute drive from downtown High Point) is the best way to network and learn who’s hiring before the jobs are posted. Many local HR managers are members.

Best Neighborhoods for Human Resources Specialists

Where you live in High Point depends on your commute and lifestyle. The city is car-dependent, so proximity to major employers matters.

1. Downtown High Point (27260): The revitalizing heart of the city. You’re close to city hall (for municipal jobs), local government, and a growing number of professional services firms. Rent here is higher but walkable. Rent Estimate: $1,100 - $1,400 for a 1BR. Commute: Minimal to downtown employers; 10-15 mins to most major corporate offices.
2. Westchester/Emerywood (27262): A classic, established neighborhood with tree-lined streets and larger homes. Popular with professionals and families. Close to I-85 for commuting to Greensboro or Winston-Salem. Rent Estimate: $1,150 - $1,350 for a 1BR. Commute: 15-20 mins to downtown; 20 mins to the airport area.
3. Southside (27265): More affordable and diverse, with a mix of older homes and apartments. It’s close to the High Point Regional Health campus and has easy access to I-85. Rent Estimate: $900 - $1,100 for a 1BR. Commute: 10-15 mins to the hospital; 20 mins to downtown.
4. Oak Hollow/Lakeview (27265): Known for the Oak Hollow Lake park and golf course. A quieter, suburban feel with good value. Rent Estimate: $950 - $1,150 for a 1BR. Commute: 15 mins to downtown; 10 mins to Hanesbrands facilities.
5. Archdale (27263): Technically a separate town but part of the High Point metro. A classic suburban community with great schools and shopping. A popular choice for families. Rent Estimate: $1,000 - $1,250 for a 1BR. Commute: 20-25 mins to downtown High Point; 25 mins to Greensboro.

The Long Game: Career Growth

In High Point, your career growth won’t be about explosive jumping between tech giants. It’s about deepening your expertise within the local industry ecosystem.

Specialty Premiums:

• Manufacturing HR: Understanding union dynamics, OSHA safety compliance, and shift-work scheduling can add a 10-15% premium to your salary.
• Healthcare HR: Credentialing, HIPAA compliance, and managing clinical vs. non-clinical staff is a high-demand, high-skill specialty.
• Employee Relations: In a town where personal relationships matter, specializing in conflict resolution and mediation is highly valued.

Advancement Path:
The typical path is HR Generalist -> HR Manager -> HR Director. The jump from Specialist to Manager is the toughest. To make it, you need to show you can handle the full employee lifecycle and manage a budget. The local market is small, so switching employers is often necessary for advancement. Many move to the larger employers in Greensboro or Winston-Salem (within a 20-30 minute commute) for a bigger title.

10-Year Outlook:
The 8% growth is slower than the national average, but it’s stable. The furniture industry is evolving, focusing on custom and high-end work, which may create specialized HR needs. The healthcare sector will continue to expand. The key for long-term growth is to build a niche. An HR Specialist who is known as the go-to expert for manufacturing labor law or healthcare benefits will always have a place. The Triad’s interconnected job market (Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point) means your opportunities aren’t limited to High Point city limits.

The Verdict: Is High Point Right for You?

Pros	Cons
Affordable Cost of Living: Your $66,168 salary goes far; homeownership is within reach.	Limited Top-Tier Salaries: You won’t find the $90k+ Specialist salaries as easily as in Raleigh or Charlotte.
Strong, Stable Employers: Hanesbrands, hospitals, and government offer job security.	Slower Job Growth: The 8% growth is steady but not dynamic.
Central Location in the Triad: Easy commutes to Greensboro and Winston-Salem for more jobs.	Car Dependency: You need a car. Public transit is minimal.
Manageable Pace: Less traffic, less stress than major metros. A good work-life balance.	Limited Nightlife/Culture: It’s a quieter city. The vibrant arts and dining scenes are in Greensboro.
Professional Network: A tight-knit, accessible local HR community.	Specialization Required: To command a premium, you need to niche down (manufacturing, healthcare).

Final Recommendation:
High Point is an excellent choice for a Human Resources Specialist who values stability, affordability, and a high quality of life over chasing the highest possible salary. It’s ideal for those who want to buy a home, start a family, and build a career with reputable local employers. It’s less suited for someone seeking rapid career advancement in a cutting-edge industry or a bustling, 24/7 urban environment. If you’re a mid-level specialist looking for a comfortable, grounded career, High Point offers a compelling and sustainable path.

FAQs

1. Is it hard to find an HR job in High Point without local experience?
It can be challenging. The local market values relationships and proven results. However, applying to the large employers (Hanesbrands, hospitals) who hire nationally can be an entry point. Networking with the Triad SHRM chapter is crucial to get insider information.

2. Do I need to know someone to get a job here?
It helps, but it’s not an absolute requirement for corporate roles. The local job market is small, so referrals are common, but formal applications are still the primary method, especially for larger companies. Your best bet is to apply directly on company websites and follow up.

3. What’s the commute like from High Point to Greensboro or Winston-Salem?
Very manageable. From downtown High Point, it’s a 20-25 minute commute to central Greensboro and about 25-30 minutes to downtown Winston-Salem via I-40 and I-85. Traffic is minimal compared to larger cities. Many HR professionals live in High Point and work in the larger metros for higher pay.

4. Are there opportunities for remote or hybrid HR work in the area?
Yes, but not as prevalent as in tech hubs. Since the pandemic, many local companies have adopted hybrid models, especially for HR Generalist and Recruiter roles. However, many core HR functions (employee relations, onboarding) are still preferred to be in-office, especially in manufacturing and healthcare. It’s becoming more common, but not the default.

5. What’s the best way to prepare for the local job market?

1. Get your SHRM-CP or PHR certification.
2. Join the Triad SHRM chapter and attend meetings.
3. Tailor your resume to highlight experience in the key local sectors: manufacturing, healthcare, or logistics.
4. Be prepared to discuss cost-of-living savings in your interviews—local employers know their salaries are below coastal markets, so they want candidates who understand the value proposition.