Overview Salaries

Salaries in Charleston, SC

Updated on Oct 10, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Charleston, SC?

The average salary in Charleston, SC is $62,066 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Charleston, SC, showing an average salary of $62,066 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Charleston, SC, showing an average salary of $5,172 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Charleston, SC, showing an average salary of $1,194 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Charleston, SC, showing an average salary of $30 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Charleston, SC offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. People working here earn an average yearly salary of $62,066. Jobs in the area pay between $26,000 and $187,000 per year. This makes Charleston a good place to find work that fits your budget and skills.

Common jobs in Charleston include roles in healthcare, education, and hospitality. These sectors offer competitive pay. A few top jobs and their average salaries include:

  • Healthcare worker: $40,636
  • Teacher: $55,273
  • Hotel manager: $69,909
  • Sales representative: $84,545
  • Software developer: $99,182

These salaries provide a good overview of what to expect in different fields. Whether you are new to the job market or looking to advance your career, Charleston has opportunities that can meet your financial goals.

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What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC?

Charleston, SC, offers a range of high-paying job opportunities. Physicians lead the way, with an average salary of over $290,000. Paramedics and nuclear medicine technologists also earn well, with salaries typically exceeding $236,000 and $140,000, respectively. Other top-paying jobs include nurse practitioners, attorneys, and pharmacists. These roles often pay more than $130,000. Outside sales representatives, MRI technologists, software engineers, and controllers also earn competitive salaries, all above $115,000. Charleston's job market provides diverse options for those seeking high compensation.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Charleston, SC, highlighting Physician with the highest at $290,459 and Controller with the lowest at $115,568.

  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $290,459
    Doctors play a crucial role in treating patients. They diagnose illnesses and prescribe medications. Work in hospitals and private practices helps maintain good health in the community.
    Find Physician jobs in Charleston, SC


  2. Paramedic
    Average Salary: $236,343
    Paramedics respond to emergencies, offering life-saving care. Their quick actions help stabilize patients. They work closely with hospitals and emergency services.
    Find Paramedic jobs in Charleston, SC


  3. Nuclear Medicine Technologist
    Average Salary: $140,309
    Technologists operate scanners and equipment for medical imaging. They ensure accurate diagnostics. Work in hospitals and clinics aids in detecting various conditions.
    Find Nuclear Medicine Technologist jobs in Charleston, SC


  4. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $136,794
    Nurse practitioners provide a wide range of health care services. They see patients and manage their care. Their role is vital in both hospitals and private clinics.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Charleston, SC


  5. Attorney
    Average Salary: $131,026
    Attorneys provide legal counsel and represent clients. They handle various cases, from personal injuries to business disputes. Their work is essential for maintaining justice in society.
    Find Attorney jobs in Charleston, SC


  6. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $125,256
    Pharmacists fill prescriptions and advise on medications. They ensure safe and effective use of drugs. Their role is vital in pharmacies and hospitals.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Charleston, SC


  7. Outside Sales Representative
    Average Salary: $121,284
    Sales representatives promote products and services to businesses. They build client relationships and meet sales targets. Their work involves both face-to-face meetings and telephone communication.
    Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Charleston, SC


  8. MRI Technologist
    Average Salary: $118,144
    Technologists operate MRI machines to create images of the body. They ensure accurate diagnostics. Work in hospitals and imaging centers helps in detecting health issues.
    Find MRI Technologist jobs in Charleston, SC


  9. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $117,517
    Engineers design and develop software applications. They write code and troubleshoot issues. Their work is essential in tech companies and various industries.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Charleston, SC


  10. Controller
    Average Salary: $115,568
    Controllers manage an organization's financial operations. They oversee budgets and ensure financial compliance. Their role is critical in businesses and public institutions.
    Find Controller jobs in Charleston, SC

What are the best paying jobs in Charleston, SC without a degree?

Charleston, SC, offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. These opportunities provide good income and valuable work experience. Ice Cream Vendors can earn an average of $52,967, and Irrigation Technicians average $46,396 per year. Another great option is working as a Concrete Finisher, with an average salary of $44,173. Positions like Server, Loader Operator, and Canvasser also offer good pay. For example, Servers average $43,577, Loader Operators make $41,884, and Canvassers earn $41,833. These jobs combine steady income with the chance to learn new skills, making them attractive choices for job seekers.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Charleston, SC without a degree, highlighting Ice Cream Vendor with the highest at $52,967 and Recreation Assistant with the lowest at $39,276.

  1. Ice Cream Vendor
    Average Salary: $52,967
    Selling ice cream at local events, parks, and festivals. Engage with customers and promote products. Work with companies like Dairy Queen and local ice cream parlors.
    Find Ice Cream Vendor jobs in Charleston, SC


  2. Irrigation Technician
    Average Salary: $46,396
    Maintaining and repairing irrigation systems for lawns and gardens. Focus on efficiency and water conservation. Collaborate with landscaping firms and homeowners.
    Find Irrigation Technician jobs in Charleston, SC


  3. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $44,173
    Smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces for construction projects. Work on residential and commercial buildings. Partner with construction companies in the city.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Charleston, SC


  4. Server
    Average Salary: $43,577
    Serving food and drinks to customers in restaurants. Managing orders and ensuring customer satisfaction. Serve at popular local spots like local diners and cafes.
    Find Server jobs in Charleston, SC


  5. Loader Operator
    Average Salary: $41,884
    Loading and unloading materials from trucks at construction sites. Use machinery to move heavy items safely. Work with construction firms and logistics companies.
    Find Loader Operator jobs in Charleston, SC


  6. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $41,833
    Collecting payments and distributing materials to customers. Work involves door-to-door services or at events. Partner with local businesses and service providers.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Charleston, SC


  7. High Reach Operator
    Average Salary: $40,511
    Operating machinery to reach high areas for maintenance and repairs. Work on buildings and infrastructure. Collaborate with construction and maintenance companies.
    Find High Reach Operator jobs in Charleston, SC


  8. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $39,961
    Designing and maintaining outdoor spaces. Planting, pruning, and landscaping gardens. Work with homeowners and landscape firms.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Charleston, SC


  9. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $39,926
    Cleaning and maintaining rooms in hotels or office buildings. Ensuring a clean and safe environment for guests. Partner with hotels and office complexes.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Charleston, SC


  10. Recreation Assistant
    Average Salary: $39,276
    Organizing and leading recreational activities for children and adults. Working in community centers and parks. Collaborate with local recreational organizations.
    Find Recreation Assistant jobs in Charleston, SC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Charleston, SC?

Charleston, SC, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. Companies like DPM Logistics and Southern National Roofing lead in providing high-paying positions. DPM Logistics stands out with an average salary of $172,839, followed closely by Southern National Roofing at $120,210. Other notable employers include Vibra Travels, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Driveline Studios. These firms offer average salaries ranging from $120,012 to $114,620. Job seekers in Charleston can find attractive employment options with these leading companies, ensuring both professional growth and financial stability.
Graph displaying company salaries in Charleston, SC, highlighting DPM Logistics with the highest at $172,839 and Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning with the lowest at $94,816.

  1. DPM Logistics
    Average Salary: $172,839
    DPM Logistics is a leading logistics and transportation company with a focus on delivering quality service. They provide solutions for businesses in a variety of industries.


  2. Southern National Roofing
    Average Salary: $120,210
    Southern National Roofing offers roofing solutions for residential and commercial clients. They pride themselves on their skilled workforce and high-quality materials.


  3. Vibra Travels
    Average Salary: $120,012
    Vibra Travels is a travel company specializing in creating unique travel experiences. They focus on customer satisfaction and personalized service.


  4. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
    Average Salary: $115,908
    The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is a government agency dedicated to serving veterans. They provide healthcare, benefits, and support services to veterans and their families.


  5. Driveline Studios
    Average Salary: $114,620
    Driveline Studios is a creative agency known for producing high-quality music and video content. They work with artists and brands to create engaging content.


  6. Voyage Healthcare
    Average Salary: $111,476
    Voyage Healthcare is a healthcare staffing company that connects medical professionals with temporary and permanent positions. They focus on providing quality care to patients.


  7. American Traveler
    Average Salary: $107,343
    American Traveler is a staffing agency that places healthcare professionals in various facilities. They are committed to matching the right professionals with the right opportunities.


  8. Booz Allen Hamilton
    Average Salary: $107,140
    Booz Allen Hamilton is a management and technology consulting firm. They provide services to government agencies and businesses to improve their operations.


  9. Vickers Nolan Enterprises (VNE)
    Average Salary: $102,244
    Vickers Nolan Enterprises is a construction company specializing in building and infrastructure projects. They focus on delivering high-quality projects on time and within budget.


  10. Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning
    Average Salary: $94,816
    Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning offers HVAC services to residential and commercial clients. They are known for their skilled technicians and quality service.

How does the cost of living in Charleston, SC compare to the national average?

Charleston, SC, features a cost of living index that is slightly below the nationwide average. The overall index of 95 reveals that residents can expect expenses that are 5% lower than the national average, with modest savings in housing and groceries. This advantageous cost structure makes Charleston an attractive option for those looking to manage living expenses effectively while maintaining a quality lifestyle.
Cost of living comparison graph for Charleston, SC vs. Nationwide: housing 8% lower, groceries 5% lower, utilities 2% lower, transportation 6% lower, healthcare 3% lower, miscellaneous 4% lower.

Charleston, SC, presents a cost of living that is fairly competitive with the nationwide average, which stands at 100. Among the various components, housing costs 8% less than the national average, making it an attractive option for individuals seeking affordable living arrangements. This reduction in housing costs can significantly ease the financial burden for those relocating to or planning to stay in Charleston.


Other expenses also mirror a similar trend. Groceries are priced at 5% below the national average, offering slight savings in everyday spending. Utilities show a minimal increase, at 2% higher than the national average. This slight increase is unlikely to greatly affect overall expenses. Transportation costs are just 6% below the national average, indicating that getting around Charleston is relatively economical. Healthcare costs are at 3% below the average, providing some relief in medical expenses. Lastly, miscellaneous costs sit at 4% below the national average, which includes items like entertainment and personal care, providing further cost-saving opportunities. This combination of cost efficiencies makes Charleston an appealing choice for many.

There are 2,761 job openings in Charleston, SC, today!

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Discover what it's like to work in Charleston, SC. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
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Charleston, SC
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