Salaries in Charleston, SC
What is the average salary in Charleston, SC?
The job market in Charleston, SC, offers a range of salary opportunities. The average salary for jobs in the area is around $64,509. This figure provides a good benchmark for job seekers. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and role.
Here are some average salary figures for different job sectors in Charleston:
- 10th percentile: $26,000
- 25th percentile: $41,818
- 50th percentile: $73,455
- 75th percentile: $105,091
- 90th percentile: $152,545
- 95th percentile: $168,364
- 99th percentile: $200,000
What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $256,871
Doctors in Charleston work in hospitals and clinics. They provide medical care to patients. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work with a team of healthcare professionals.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $172,267
Solar sales representatives sell solar energy systems. They work with homeowners and businesses. They explain the benefits of solar energy. They help customers save on energy costs.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $138,897
Nurse practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They work in clinics and hospitals. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They prescribe medications and order tests.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $124,725
Pharmacists work in pharmacies. They fill prescriptions and provide medication information. They work with doctors and patients. They ensure safe and effective medication use.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $122,420
Counselors help people with emotional and mental health issues. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices. They provide therapy and support. They help clients cope with challenges.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $110,121
Software engineers design and develop software. They work in tech companies. They write code and test software. They ensure software runs smoothly and efficiently.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $109,643
Systems engineers design and manage computer systems. They work in various industries. They ensure systems run smoothly. They troubleshoot and resolve issues.
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Independent Contractor
Average Salary: $109,372
Independent contractors work on a freelance basis. They offer services to clients. They manage their own schedules. They can work in many different fields.
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Controller
Average Salary: $108,924
Controllers manage financial operations. They work in companies of all sizes. They prepare budgets and financial reports. They ensure financial accuracy and compliance.
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Architect
Average Salary: $105,007
Architects design buildings and structures. They work in architecture firms. They create plans and drawings. They ensure buildings are safe and functional.
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What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC without a degree?

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Canvasser
Average Salary: $75,126
This job involves talking to people to gather information. It is often done for market research. Companies like Survey Sampling International and Research Now SSI hire canvassers.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $54,562
This role is about overseeing kitchen staff and operations. It requires strong organizational skills. Restaurants like The Ordinary and The Grocery offer kitchen manager positions.
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Ice Cream Vendor
Average Salary: $52,827
This job involves selling ice cream and other treats. It is often seasonal. Vendors work for companies like Cold Stone Creamery and Ben & Jerry's.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $47,703
This role involves installing and maintaining irrigation systems. It requires knowledge of plumbing and landscaping. Companies like Sprinkler Warehouse and Irrigation Associates hire technicians.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $47,664
This job involves smoothing and finishing concrete. It requires physical strength and attention to detail. Companies like Carolina Ready Mix and Southern Concrete hire finishers.
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Terminal Operator
Average Salary: $47,168
This role involves operating machinery to load and unload cargo. It requires knowledge of safety procedures. Companies like Port of Charleston and Maersk hire terminal operators.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $46,156
This role involves overseeing restaurant operations. It requires strong leadership and customer service skills. Restaurants like The Ordinary and The Grocery offer manager positions.
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Seafood Team Member
Average Salary: $41,339
This job involves preparing and serving seafood dishes. It requires knowledge of food safety and customer service. Seafood restaurants like The Ordinary and The Grocery hire team members.
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Server
Average Salary: $41,337
This role involves taking orders and serving food and drinks. It requires strong communication skills. Restaurants like The Ordinary and The Grocery hire servers.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $41,315
This job involves maintaining lawns and gardens. It requires knowledge of landscaping and safety procedures. Companies like TruGreen and Lawn Doctor hire technicians.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Charleston, SC?

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Matt O'Neill Real Estate
Average Salary: $117,184
Matt O'Neill Real Estate is a leading real estate company in Charleston. They offer a variety of services and have a strong reputation for excellence.
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Naval Information Warfare Systems Command
Average Salary: $113,760
This government agency provides information warfare systems for the Navy. They focus on technology and defense, offering competitive salaries.
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SAIC
Average Salary: $109,610
SAIC is a major technology company that works with government agencies. They offer a range of services and have a strong reputation in the industry.
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US Department of Veterans Affairs
Average Salary: $108,522
The Department of Veterans Affairs provides healthcare and benefits to veterans. They offer stable employment and good compensation.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $107,219
CyberCoders is a tech recruitment company. They specialize in placing tech professionals and offer competitive salaries.
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Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $100,569
Booz Allen Hamilton is a consulting firm that works with government and private sectors. They offer a variety of services and good pay.
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Service Experts
Average Salary: $96,782
Service Experts provides HVAC services. They are known for their quality service and offer good compensation to their employees.
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Jobot
Average Salary: $95,588
Jobot is a recruitment agency that helps people find jobs. They offer competitive salaries and a variety of job opportunities.
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gpac
Average Salary: $91,415
gpac is a staffing agency that places professionals in various industries. They offer good pay and a variety of job opportunities.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $90,241
OneStaff Medical is a staffing agency that specializes in healthcare. They offer good compensation and a variety of job opportunities.
How does the cost of living in Charleston, SC compare to the national average?

Charleston, SC, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The housing index in Charleston stands at 92, which is 8% lower than the national average of 100. This suggests that housing costs in Charleston are more affordable for residents and job seekers compared to the rest of the country.
Other expenses in Charleston also reflect a similar trend. For instance, groceries cost 95, which is 5% below the national average. The transportation index is at 90, indicating a 10% lower cost compared to the nationwide average. Utilities and miscellaneous expenses are slightly above the national average, with indices of 98 and 97, respectively. Healthcare costs remain consistent with the national average at 100. Overall, Charleston provides a cost-effective living environment for many essential expenses.