What is the average salary in Columbia, MO?
Columbia, Missouri, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $55,387. This figure reflects the diverse job market and the potential for growth in different sectors. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and the specific role.
Some of the top-paying industries in Columbia include:
- Healthcare: $74,848
- Education: $63,136
- Information Technology: $86,560
- Finance: $98,272
- Professional Services: $109,984
These figures show that skilled professionals in high-demand fields can expect competitive compensation. Job seekers in Columbia can find rewarding opportunities with attractive salaries.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO?

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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $135,355
Pharmacists work in local pharmacies, hospitals, and clinics. They ensure patients receive the right medication and dosage. They also advise on health and wellness.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $122,636
Nurse Practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $116,471
Physician Assistants work in various healthcare settings. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They also perform medical exams and procedures.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $106,934
Traveling Nurses work in different locations. They provide care in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities. They often work on short-term contracts.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $104,005
Attorneys represent clients in legal matters. They work in law firms, corporations, and government agencies. They handle cases in civil, criminal, and family law.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $95,595
Outside Sales Representatives sell products or services. They work for companies in various industries. They travel to meet clients and build relationships.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $93,325
Radiologic Technologists operate imaging equipment. They work in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers. They ensure patients receive accurate diagnostic images.
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Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $91,660
ICU Registered Nurses care for critically ill patients. They work in hospital ICUs. They monitor patients and administer treatments.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $91,351
Occupational Therapists help patients recover from injuries. They work in hospitals, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. They design treatment plans to improve patients' daily living skills.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $90,894
Registered Nurses provide patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They monitor patients, administer treatments, and provide support.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $54,366
This job involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. It requires attention to detail and physical strength. Companies like ABC Construction and XYZ Builders offer these roles.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,417
Manage daily operations and ensure customer satisfaction. This role involves overseeing staff and maintaining a clean environment. Local restaurants such as The Bistro and The Grill House hire for this position.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $45,440
Help with concrete pouring and form setup. This job requires physical stamina and teamwork. Companies like City Concrete Contractors and Local Builders often have openings for laborers.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $39,606
Maintain lawns by mowing, trimming, and applying treatments. This role requires knowledge of landscaping tools. Companies like Green Thumb Lawn Care and Lawn Care Pros offer these positions.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $37,988
Cut and package meat for sale. This job requires precision and attention to detail. Local grocery stores and butcher shops hire for these roles.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,091
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. This role involves planting, pruning, and landscaping. Companies like Greenscapes and Landscape Solutions often need landscapers.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $35,381
Prepare and package food for takeout orders. This job requires speed and accuracy. Restaurants like The Diner and The Café offer these positions.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $35,053
Help customers choose beauty products. This role involves product knowledge and customer service. Stores like Sephora and Ulta Beauty hire for these roles.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $34,480
Maintain and clean floors. This job requires physical strength and attention to detail. Companies like Clean Sweep and Floor Care Solutions often hire floor techs.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $34,194
Maintain outdoor areas and facilities. This role involves landscaping and general upkeep. Schools and parks often need groundskeepers.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, MO?

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Favorite Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $121,742
Favorite Healthcare Staffing offers top-notch nursing and allied health jobs. They provide excellent benefits and competitive pay.
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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $115,620
Nomad Health connects healthcare professionals with jobs in various locations. They focus on high pay and flexibility.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $102,441
Supplemental Health Care specializes in placing healthcare workers in temporary positions. They offer good pay and benefits.
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Leaf Home
Average Salary: $99,236
Leaf Home provides home healthcare services. They offer competitive salaries and a supportive work environment.
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FUSION Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $97,214
FUSION Medical Staffing places healthcare professionals in various roles. They offer good pay and career growth opportunities.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $80,173
Medical Solutions connects healthcare professionals with travel jobs. They offer good pay and benefits.
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EquipmentShare
Average Salary: $70,171
EquipmentShare is a leading provider of equipment rentals. They offer competitive salaries and a dynamic work environment.
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CenterPointe Hospital Columbia
Average Salary: $66,763
CenterPointe Hospital Columbia provides mental health and addiction services. They offer a supportive work environment.
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Zimmer Communications
Average Salary: $65,112
Zimmer Communications offers telecommunications services. They provide good pay and benefits.
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Nucleus Healthcare
Average Salary: $64,781
Nucleus Healthcare provides staffing solutions for healthcare facilities. They offer competitive salaries and benefits.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, MO compare to the national average?

Columbia, Missouri, offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the nationwide average. The cost of living index for Columbia stands at 91, which is 9% below the national average of 100. This lower cost is largely due to housing, which is 15% cheaper than the national average. While housing is notably affordable, other areas like groceries and utilities are slightly below the average, with indices of 95 and 97, respectively.
In contrast, some expenses in Columbia are close to the national average. For example, transportation costs are 10% below the average, while healthcare costs are only 2% below. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like entertainment and personal care, are also slightly lower at 8% below the national average. Overall, Columbia provides a balanced cost of living that is favorable for many job seekers looking to manage their expenses effectively.



