What is the average salary in Charleston, SC?
Charleston, SC, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary in Charleston is $60,493. This figure reflects the diverse economic landscape of the city, which includes sectors like healthcare, education, and tourism. Many professionals find rewarding positions that match their skills and experience.
Salaries in Charleston vary by industry. The top-paying sectors include healthcare, where professionals earn an average of $184,182 per year. Education and finance also offer strong salaries, with averages around $168,364 and $152,545 respectively. These figures highlight the potential for career growth and financial stability in Charleston. Job seekers can find a range of opportunities that align with their career goals and financial aspirations.
What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $273,432
Doctors in Charleston work in hospitals and clinics. They diagnose and treat patients. They often work with local healthcare providers.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $143,075
Nurse Practitioners in Charleston provide primary and specialty care. They work in hospitals and clinics. They often collaborate with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $142,921
Solar Sales Representatives in Charleston sell solar energy systems. They work with homeowners and businesses. They often partner with local solar companies.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $130,222
Counselors in Charleston help people with personal and emotional issues. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices. They often collaborate with other mental health professionals.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $126,772
Pharmacists in Charleston fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. They often partner with local doctors and clinics.
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Controller
Average Salary: $118,329
Controllers in Charleston manage financial operations. They work in various industries. They often collaborate with finance teams and executives.
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Independent Contractor
Average Salary: $117,447
Independent Contractors in Charleston offer services to clients. They work in various fields. They often manage their own schedules and projects.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $112,255
Software Engineers in Charleston develop software applications. They work in tech companies and startups. They often collaborate with other developers and IT professionals.
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MRI Technologist
Average Salary: $109,983
MRI Technologists in Charleston operate MRI machines. They work in hospitals and imaging centers. They often collaborate with radiologists and other medical professionals.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $106,489
Systems Engineers in Charleston design and maintain computer systems. They work in various industries. They often collaborate with IT teams and other engineers.
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What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC without a degree?

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Canvasser
Average Salary: $65,529
Canvassers visit homes and businesses to gather information. They work for local businesses and political campaigns. This role involves meeting new people and learning about the community.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $64,875
Kitchen managers oversee kitchen staff and ensure food is prepared safely. They work in restaurants and cater to a variety of customers. This role requires strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $49,533
Concrete finishers spread and smooth concrete for construction projects. They work with construction companies and on various sites. This role involves physical labor and working outdoors.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $48,543
Irrigation technicians install and maintain irrigation systems. They work for landscaping companies and on residential and commercial properties. This role requires knowledge of plumbing and irrigation systems.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $48,163
Restaurant managers oversee restaurant operations and staff. They work in restaurants and ensure a positive dining experience. This role involves managing budgets and customer service.
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Ice Cream Vendor
Average Salary: $45,472
Ice cream vendors sell ice cream and other treats at events and public places. They work for ice cream companies and at festivals. This role involves interacting with customers and managing sales.
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Seafood Team Member
Average Salary: $42,490
Seafood team members prepare and serve seafood dishes. They work in seafood restaurants and cater to a variety of customers. This role involves working in a fast-paced environment and handling food safely.
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Loader Operator
Average Salary: $41,636
Loader operators move materials using machinery. They work in construction and logistics companies. This role requires operating heavy machinery and following safety protocols.
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Server
Average Salary: $41,376
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They work in restaurants and cater to a variety of customers. This role involves interacting with customers and working in a fast-paced environment.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $40,435
Lawn care technicians maintain lawns and gardens. They work for landscaping companies and on residential and commercial properties. This role involves using tools and equipment to care for lawns.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Charleston, SC?

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Naval Information Warfare Systems Command
Average Salary: $114,754
This organization works with the U.S. Navy to develop and maintain information systems. They offer a competitive salary and benefits.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $109,145
CyberCoders is a staffing agency that connects job seekers with tech companies. They offer a high average salary for tech positions.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $108,934
SAIC provides technology and management services to the government. They offer a strong salary and benefits package.
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Quality Wheels Inc
Average Salary: $105,932
Quality Wheels Inc manufactures and distributes wheels. They offer competitive salaries and a positive work environment.
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Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $103,859
Booz Allen Hamilton is a consulting firm that works with the government. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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Service Experts
Average Salary: $95,221
Service Experts provides HVAC, plumbing, and electrical services. They offer a fair salary and opportunities for growth.
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gpac
Average Salary: $92,549
gpac is a staffing agency that connects job seekers with a variety of companies. They offer a good salary and benefits.
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FUSION Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $89,759
FUSION Medical Staffing provides healthcare staffing services. They offer a fair salary and benefits.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $89,323
OneStaff Medical provides healthcare staffing services. They offer a fair salary and benefits.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $86,473
Supplemental Health Care provides healthcare staffing services. They offer a fair salary and benefits.
How does the cost of living in Charleston, SC compare to the national average?

Charleston, SC, has a cost of living index that is notably higher than the nationwide average in several key areas. Housing costs in Charleston stand at 118, which is 18% higher than the national average. This means that housing expenses in Charleston are significantly more expensive compared to other areas in the country. Similarly, groceries in Charleston are priced at 105, reflecting a 5% increase over the national average. This indicates that residents will spend slightly more on food items than the average American.
Transportation costs in Charleston, however, are slightly lower than the national average, with an index of 95. This represents a 5% decrease, offering some relief to those who need to commute. Healthcare costs in Charleston are also below the national average, with an index of 90, which is a 10% reduction. This could be a positive factor for those considering relocation. Additionally, the cost of miscellaneous items in Charleston is at 102, which is just 2% higher than the national average. Overall, while Charleston has higher costs in some areas, it also offers savings in others, making it a balanced consideration for potential residents.



