Getting a Job in Tech in Raleigh in 2025: The Complete Guide
Last Updated: December 17th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Raleigh's tech scene is booming in 2025, ranking as the 6th fastest-growing tech hub in the U.S. with a 17.9% workforce increase. Median tech salaries hit $110,000, with top earners making over $150,000. The city offers affordable living compared to Silicon Valley and NYC, attracting talent with flexible, remote work options. It hosts major companies like IBM and Epic Games, alongside a vibrant startup ecosystem. Key sectors like AI, clean tech, and cybersecurity are thriving, with ample educational and networking opportunities available for tech aspirants.
The tech scene here is absolutely crushing it with a 17.9% growth in the workforce, making it the sixth fastest-growing tech hub in the U.S. The numbers are wild - the median salary hit $110,000, and companies like IBM, SAS, and Epic Games can't hire people fast enough.
What's really cool is that 70% of tech hires are junior developers, so it's perfect for newcomers jumping into tech.
The best part? Apple just dropped a $1 billion investment for a new campus here, creating thousands of jobs.
Whether you're into software development, data analytics, or cybersecurity, there's something for everyone. Plus, the cost of living is way better than Silicon Valley, and with all these tech companies moving in, the opportunities are endless.
The startup scene is popping too, with tons of new companies joining established players. If you're thinking about getting into tech, Raleigh in 2025 is absolutely the place to be.
Table of Contents
- Why Raleigh is a Top City for Tech Jobs
- Understanding Raleigh's Tech Job Market in 2025
- Educational Pathways for Aspiring Tech Professionals in Raleigh
- Training and Internship Opportunities in Raleigh
- Job Hunting Resources in Raleigh's Tech Scene
- Networking Opportunities within Raleigh's Tech Community
- Overcoming Challenges in the Raleigh Tech Job Market
- Is It Difficult to Enter the Tech Industry in Raleigh?
- Conclusion: Launching Your Tech Career in Raleigh in 2025
- Frequently Asked Questions
Check out next:
Take the first step towards a tech career with Nucamp's Raleigh-based courses.
Why Raleigh is a Top City for Tech Jobs
(Up)About Raleigh's incredible rise as the East Coast's next biggest tech hub.
The city has totally transformed into a tech powerhouse, currently ranking 6th among top tech cities in 2024. What makes this place so special? For starters, tech professionals here are crushing it with average salaries hitting $118,933 per year - a solid 3.2% increase from last year.
The best part? You're not blowing your whole paycheck on rent like you would in San Francisco or NYC.
The city is packed with major players - I'm talking about industry giants like Q2, MetLife, and Qualtrics setting up shop here.
Plus, the Research Triangle Park is literally the largest research park in the US, home to tech innovators and groundbreaking startups. The energy here is electric, with new companies popping up constantly and established firms expanding their operations.
What really sets Raleigh apart is how it's built for success.
- Networking Opportunities: The tech scene here is growing faster than almost anywhere else, with amazing internet infrastructure (ranked 2nd nationally).
- Educational Backbone: Whether you're fresh out of college or switching careers, Raleigh's got your back with its strong educational backbone - we're talking Duke, NC State, and UNC Chapel Hill right in our backyard.
- Community Welcome: The city's tech community is super welcoming, making it easy to connect and level up your career.
Trust me, if you're looking to make it in tech, Raleigh is where it's happening in 2025.
Understanding Raleigh's Tech Job Market in 2025
(Up)The tech scene in Raleigh is absolutely crushing it in 2025! According to recent data, tech professionals here are earning median salaries of $110,000, with top performers pulling in over $150,000.
The city's growth is seriously impressive - we're looking at an 11.4% population surge since 2018, which is way above the national average of 4.3%. The job market is super active, with major companies like IBM, SAS, and Epic Games constantly recruiting new talent.
What's really cool is how diverse the opportunities are.
Software development is still huge, but there's massive growth in AI, clean tech, and cybersecurity. The Triangle Tweener List now tracks about 300 startups in software and e-commerce, showing just how much the startup ecosystem has blown up.
Staffing experts are predicting Raleigh will become the second-biggest tech hub on the East Coast by the end of 2025, which is pretty mind-blowing.
The best part? The cost of living here is way more reasonable than Silicon Valley or NYC, making it perfect for someone starting their tech career.
Companies are offering flexible work arrangements too, with many embracing hybrid and remote options. If you're thinking about jumping into tech, Raleigh's combination of job opportunities, solid pay, and actually affordable living makes it a seriously smart choice.
Educational Pathways for Aspiring Tech Professionals in Raleigh
(Up)As the tech scene in Raleigh keeps growing in 2025, the educational opportunities are seriously expanding. NC State's Technology Education Program offers both on-campus and online master's degrees, perfect for those looking to level up their tech skills while keeping their day job.
Wake Tech, which has been named one of America's Top Online Colleges for 2025, serves over 70,000 students annually, making it North Carolina's largest community college.
The Future Technologists Internship Program is offering paid remote work opportunities at $20 per hour, and you don't even need prior tech experience to apply.
The local tech education scene is getting more innovative too.
The UNC System Learning and Technology Symposium is coming up in June 2025, bringing together the brightest minds in tech education.
This is huge for networking and learning about the latest trends. Many programs are focusing on practical experience - you can actually get hands-on experience while studying.
The best part? Many of these programs have high job placement rates, and some even offer financial support like teaching assistantships and tuition remission.
For anyone looking to break into tech, Raleigh's colleges and universities are offering tons of flexible learning options.
Whether you're into software development, cybersecurity, or data analytics, there's a program that fits your schedule and career goals. The key is picking a pathway that matches where you want to go in your career and taking advantage of all the resources available - from internships to industry certifications.
Training and Internship Opportunities in Raleigh
(Up)The tech scene in Raleigh is absolutely buzzing with opportunities in 2025, especially for those of us just starting out. The Future Technologists Internship Program is turning heads with its $20 per hour remote work setup, running from May to August.
What's really cool is that you don't need prior tech experience - they're specifically looking for fresh faces with new perspectives. Raleigh's top tech firms like Red Hat and Cisco are actively involved, offering real projects that let interns dive right into the action.
The NC Department of Information Technology has made it super accessible, with flexible schedules ranging from 20 to 40 hours per week.
If you're looking to mix things up, NCBiotech's Industrial Internship Program offers a different flavor of tech experience, with opportunities spanning 12 weeks and funding support up to $4,000 per company.
They've already helped over 200 interns land positions at more than 100 companies, which is pretty impressive. The remote work scene is especially hot right now - I've found that most tech companies in Raleigh are totally on board with hybrid or fully remote setups, making it easier to balance work with other commitments.
For those worried about breaking into tech without experience, NCDIT's diverse internship programs are a game-changer.
They offer specific tracks for different backgrounds, including programs for HBCU students and neurodiverse candidates. The learning curve might seem steep, but these programs are designed to get you up to speed quickly with hands-on experience.
Plus, with Raleigh's tech job growth looking strong, these internships are solid stepping stones into full-time roles. The combination of structured learning and real-world projects makes it possible to build a portfolio while earning, which is exactly what employers are looking for in 2025.
Job Hunting Resources in Raleigh's Tech Scene
(Up)Looking for a tech job in Raleigh in 2025 is actually more exciting than intimidating, thanks to the city's impressive growth as the East Coast's emerging tech powerhouse.
The numbers are seriously promising - with over 10,000 current tech openings and a projected 9.5% job growth rate by the end of 2024, which is way higher than the national average of 6.5%.
What makes it even better is that Raleigh offers mid-level engineering positions at around $98,000, making it possible to build a solid career without breaking the bank on living expenses.
The job market here is getting a major boost from established tech giants like IBM, Cisco, and Red Hat, plus a bunch of rising startups that are always on the lookout for fresh talent.
The Research Triangle Park is especially lit, contributing a massive $37 billion annually to North Carolina's economy. What's particularly cool for newcomers is that Raleigh ranks among the top 20 cities for IT jobs, with strong demand in software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity.
The city's tech community is super welcoming, with regular meetups, workshops, and networking events that make it easier to connect with potential employers. Plus, with the rise of remote work options and flexible arrangements, there are more ways than ever to break into the local tech scene.
Networking Opportunities within Raleigh's Tech Community
(Up)Networking in Raleigh's tech community has become a game-changer for career growth in 2025. As Raleigh's tech employment continues growing at 41.6% - three times the national average - connecting with the right people is crucial.
The city's tech ecosystem now supports over 70,000 tech workers and contributes $31.9 billion to the local economy, making it an incredible place to build professional relationships.
The community here is super active and welcoming, especially for newcomers looking to break into tech.
What makes networking here different is the variety of opportunities available.
NC TECH hosts over 75 events annually, including specialized networks for diversity and inclusion, women in tech, and executive leadership meetups.
The Research Triangle Park area has become a powerhouse for networking, with organizations like the Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED) and NC RIoT providing direct access to mentorship and funding opportunities.
Instead of just collecting business cards, people here actually want to help each other succeed.
Getting started with networking is pretty straightforward.
Regular events like Downtown Techies and All Things Open are perfect for meeting other tech professionals in a casual setting.
The American Underground, one of Google For Entrepreneurs' tech hubs, offers coworking spaces where you can naturally connect with others in the industry. What's really cool is that many established tech professionals in Raleigh actively mentor newcomers, sharing their experience and helping them navigate the local tech scene.
Whether you're interested in software development, cybersecurity, or data analytics, there's a community here ready to welcome you.
Overcoming Challenges in the Raleigh Tech Job Market
(Up)As a growing tech hub on the East Coast, Raleigh's tech scene is experiencing massive growth, with the median tech salary reaching $110,000 and top performers earning over $150,000.
The competition is real, but the opportunities are incredible, especially with major players like IBM, Cisco, and Epic Games calling the Research Triangle home.
Getting your foot in the door requires more than just technical skills - it's about showing potential employers you've got what it takes to solve real problems.
The local tech industry is expanding beyond traditional sectors into clean tech, cybersecurity, and AI, creating diverse opportunities for newcomers.
The numbers are seriously encouraging - tech job growth is projected at 15% for 2025, with companies actively hiring for cloud computing, data analytics, and cybersecurity positions.
What's really cool is that about 70% of tech professionals found their positions through networking events or referrals, so getting involved in the local tech community is crucial.
The competition might seem tough with an average job search duration of 20 weeks, but focusing on in-demand skills like Python, Java, and cloud computing can significantly boost your chances.
One of the biggest advantages of pursuing tech in Raleigh is the lower cost of living compared to other tech hubs.
The area is seeing an 11.4% population growth, with many professionals relocating from expensive cities like New York and Boston.
This influx is creating a dynamic job market where companies are constantly looking for fresh talent. The key to standing out is building a strong portfolio of projects, participating in local hackathons, and staying current with emerging technologies.
Remote work options are becoming more common, offering flexibility and access to opportunities beyond the local market.
Is It Difficult to Enter the Tech Industry in Raleigh?
(Up)Breaking into Raleigh's tech scene in 2025 is looking seriously promising! Tech job growth is expected to surge by 9.5%, way above the national average of 6.5%.
The city is transforming into a tech powerhouse, with over 10,000 current positions up for grabs. What makes this even better is that Raleigh is predicted to become the East Coast's second-biggest tech hub by 2025, right behind Washington, D.C. The best part? Entry-level tech salaries here average around $98,000 - that's $16,000 less than D.C., but the cost of living is literally half as much! Major players like IBM, Red Hat, and Epic Games are constantly on the lookout for fresh talent, while the startup scene is absolutely buzzing.
The population keeps growing too, with loads of young professionals moving here from bigger cities like NYC and Boston.
The Research Triangle Park is basically a tech playground, contributing $37 billion annually to the state's economy. Between the affordable living costs, amazing job opportunities, and the fact that tech companies are fighting over talent, there's never been a better time to jump into Raleigh's tech scene.
Conclusion: Launching Your Tech Career in Raleigh in 2025
(Up)Raleigh's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025! The city is on track to become the East Coast's second-biggest tech hub, and honestly, that's super exciting for anyone looking to break into tech.
The numbers are mind-blowing - we're talking about a median tech salary of $110,000, with top performers pulling in over $150,000. Plus, over the past five years, we've added 11,400 tech jobs, which is an 18% jump! That's not just statistics; that's real opportunity for people like Lisa Perez who are starting their careers.
What's really cool is how Raleigh keeps attracting more tech talent, especially from expensive places like New York and Boston.
The cost of living here is way better than Silicon Valley, and we've got this amazing mix of established companies like IBM and Epic Games, plus hundreds of startups doing innovative work in AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity.
For someone fresh out of a coding bootcamp or college, there are tons of entry-level positions, especially in software development and data analysis.
The best part? The startup scene is incredible! Local employers are actively seeking skills in Java, Python, and SQL, plus there's growing demand for people who know their way around AI and machine learning.
With nearly 300 startups in the Triangle area, and major tech companies expanding their offices here, there's never been a better time to jump into tech in Raleigh.
And with so many coworking spaces and tech meetups happening all over the city, building your network is way easier than you might think!
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why is Raleigh a top city for tech jobs in 2025?
Raleigh is a leading tech city due to its strong growth in the tech sector, with tech workforce growth at 17.9% and average salaries reaching $118,933. The city offers a low cost of living compared to other tech hubs like San Francisco, attracting major companies and fostering a vibrant startup scene.
What educational opportunities are available for aspiring tech professionals in Raleigh?
Raleigh offers diverse educational pathways including courses at Duke, NC State, and UNC Chapel Hill, as well as master's programs and online courses from institutions like Wake Tech. These programs cater to different career goals, providing both theoretical and practical hands-on experience.
How can I find tech job opportunities in Raleigh?
Job seekers can leverage Raleigh's active tech community by participating in networking events, meetups, and workshops. The city boasts over 10,000 tech job openings with growing demand in areas like software development, data analytics, and cybersecurity, supported by major tech firms and startups.
What are the internship and training opportunities like in Raleigh's tech scene?
Raleigh offers diverse internship opportunities, including remote work setups and flexible schedules in partnership with top tech firms like Red Hat and Cisco. Internships provide hands-on experience and can be stepping stones to full-time roles, particularly with companies supporting remote and hybrid work setups.
Is it difficult to enter the tech industry in Raleigh?
Entering the tech industry in Raleigh is promising due to the significant demand for tech professionals, a 9.5% job growth rate, and a median salary of $110,000. The tech community is welcoming, and the cost of living is more affordable, providing a conducive environment for newcomers.
You may be interested in the following topics as well:
Join us to explore how Making the Right Choice in Raleigh can impact your future in coding.
Explore how the Raleigh Coding Bootcamp offers a comprehensive curriculum at an unbeatable price.
Follow these essential steps to begin learning coding in Raleigh and jumpstart your journey.
Explore the skills required for a Full Stack Developer and land yourself a high-paying job in Raleigh.
Unlock a career in tech by Understanding the Cost of coding bootcamps in Raleigh and discovering how affordability compares to other cities.
Read about Raleigh's promising future as it prepares to gain tech hub status by 2025.
Explore the plethora of resources for cybersecurity aspirants in Raleigh to support your journey.
Staying current with IT market trends is crucial to adapting and thriving in the evolving job market.
Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.