What is the average salary in Charleston, SC?
Charleston, SC, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. People in Charleston can earn a decent income, with an average yearly salary of $59,992. The job market here includes a mix of roles with different pay scales. Most positions fall within the mid-range salary bracket. This provides many options for job seekers looking to secure a stable income.
Some of the highest-paying jobs in Charleston include roles in management, healthcare, and finance. These fields often offer salaries above the average. For example, healthcare professionals can earn between $84,545 and $128,455 yearly. Finance and management positions range from $99,182 to $172,364 annually. Entry-level roles may start at around $26,000, while highly skilled positions can reach up to $187,000. This range allows job seekers to find roles that match their skills and experience levels.
What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $282,420
Physicians diagnose and treat illnesses. In Charleston, they work with healthcare providers like Roper St. Francis. The city offers a high quality of life with its beautiful weather and coastal culture.
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Owner Operator
Average Salary: $249,891
Owner operators run their own businesses, often in logistics or transportation. Charleston’s port and business environment provide great opportunities. They manage their schedules and work independently.
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Paramedic
Average Salary: $204,582
Paramedics respond to medical emergencies and provide critical care. They work for EMS providers in Charleston, facing fast-paced situations. The job requires quick thinking and compassion.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $144,574
Nurse practitioners offer primary and specialty care. They work in clinics and hospitals throughout Charleston. The role requires empathy and strong communication skills.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $138,987
Counselors help individuals with mental health and personal issues. They work in private practices or community centers in Charleston. This role needs a deep understanding of human behavior.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $127,389
Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies across Charleston. This job involves knowledge of medications and patient care.
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Independent Contractor
Average Salary: $126,269
Independent contractors provide specialized services. In Charleston, they may work in IT, marketing, or design. The job offers flexibility but requires self-management.
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Solar Sales Representative
Average Salary: $125,680
Solar sales reps promote renewable energy solutions. They work for companies like Sunrun. Charleston’s sunny climate boosts the demand for solar services.
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MRI Technologist
Average Salary: $114,393
MRI technologists operate imaging equipment. They work in hospitals and clinics. The job demands precision and a calm demeanor.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $112,977
Software engineers design and develop applications. They work with tech companies in Charleston. This role requires strong problem-solving skills and technical knowledge.
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What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC without a degree?

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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $67,588
This role oversees kitchen operations. It involves managing staff and ensuring food safety. Well-known companies in Charleston hire for these positions.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $49,502
It involves overseeing a restaurant’s daily operations. The manager schedules staff and handles customer service. Local restaurants offer many opportunities.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $47,473
This involves collecting data and signatures. It requires walking around neighborhoods. Local businesses often seek canvassers for various projects.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $46,735
They install and maintain irrigation systems. It requires knowledge of water systems. Landscaping companies often hire for these roles.
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Ice Cream Vendor
Average Salary: $46,175
This role serves ice cream and other treats. It requires excellent customer service skills. Many Charleston events need ice cream vendors.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $44,850
They prepare and finish concrete surfaces. This role requires physical strength and attention to detail. Construction sites often need finishers.
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Seafood Team Member
Average Salary: $42,474
It involves preparing and serving seafood dishes. The role demands knowledge of seafood. Local seafood restaurants offer these opportunities.
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Loader Operator
Average Salary: $41,333
They load and unload materials. It requires handling heavy equipment. Warehouses and distribution centers need loader operators.
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Server
Average Salary: $41,279
They take orders and serve food to customers. It requires good communication skills. Restaurants in Charleston frequently hire servers.
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High Reach Operator
Average Salary: $40,537
They lift and move heavy objects to high places. It needs physical strength and safety awareness. Construction and warehouse jobs often seek operators.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Charleston, SC?

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Naval Information Warfare Systems Command
Average Salary: $115,462
This is a federal organization that offers many jobs in Charleston. They focus on making sure the Navy can use technology to stay safe and strong.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $113,416
CyberCoders helps people find jobs in technology. They connect job seekers with companies that need tech skills.
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Booz Allen Hamilton
Average Salary: $104,143
This company offers many jobs in consulting. They work with governments and businesses to solve problems.
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Quality Wheels Inc
Average Salary: $103,868
Quality Wheels makes wheels for cars. They have jobs for people who like working with their hands.
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Service Experts
Average Salary: $96,234
This company helps people with their heating and cooling needs. They offer many jobs for sales and service.
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FUSION Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $89,609
FUSION Medical helps hospitals find the staff they need. They offer jobs for nurses and other healthcare workers.
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OneStaff Medical
Average Salary: $88,748
OneStaff Medical helps find jobs for nurses and other healthcare workers. They work with hospitals and clinics.
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The MIL Corporation
Average Salary: $88,428
The MIL Corporation offers jobs in aviation. They work with airports and airlines.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $87,117
Supplemental Health Care helps find jobs for nurses and other healthcare workers. They work with hospitals and clinics.
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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $84,677
LifeStance Health offers jobs for mental health professionals. They help people with their emotional and mental health needs.
How does the cost of living in Charleston, SC compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Charleston, SC, offers a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. For housing, Charleston stands slightly below this benchmark with an index of 98, indicating that housing costs are about 2% less than the national average. This can be a significant benefit for job seekers looking to settle in Charleston, potentially freeing up some budget for other necessities or savings.
When examining other key areas, Charleston fares well in groceries and healthcare, where the cost of living index is 105 and 102, respectively. This means that groceries are about 5% more expensive, while healthcare costs are approximately 2% above the average. Utilities in Charleston are notably cheaper, with an index of 92, representing an 8% decrease from the national average. Transportation costs also lean slightly below average at 97, which is a 3% reduction. Miscellaneous expenses are nearly on par with the nationwide average at 101, suggesting a negligible change. Overall, Charleston presents a cost of living that is competitive and slightly advantageous for various expenses, making it an appealing option for professional job seekers.



