What is the average salary in Columbia, MO?
Columbia, MO offers a variety of salary options across different industries. The average yearly salary in the area is $55,152. This figure reflects a mix of earnings from various sectors. People who work in education, healthcare, and government jobs often see salaries around this average.
The salary distribution shows a range of earnings. The most common salaries fall between $28,000 and $74,545. Higher-paying jobs are available in fields like engineering, finance, and information technology. Some of the highest salaries reach up to $156,000 per year. This range provides opportunities for job seekers to find positions that match their skills and experience.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO?

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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $135,802
Pharmacists work in local pharmacies, hospitals, and research labs. They ensure patients receive the right medications and dosages. They also provide advice on health and wellness.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $120,776
Nurse Practitioners provide primary and specialty care. They work in clinics, hospitals, and private practices. They diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and offer health advice.
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Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $111,653
Physician Assistants work under the supervision of doctors. They see patients, diagnose illnesses, and prescribe treatments. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices.
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Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $106,892
Traveling Nurses work in various healthcare settings. They provide care for patients in different locations. They often work in hospitals, clinics, and other medical facilities.
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Attorney
Average Salary: $102,804
Attorneys represent clients in legal matters. They work in law firms, corporations, and government agencies. They provide legal advice, represent clients in court, and draft legal documents.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $94,958
Outside Sales Representatives sell products or services to businesses. They travel to meet clients and build relationships. They work for companies in various industries.
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Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $92,761
Radiologic Technologists operate imaging equipment. They take X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. They work in hospitals, clinics, and imaging centers.
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Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $91,809
ICU Registered Nurses care for critically ill patients. They monitor vital signs and administer treatments. They work in hospitals and critical care units.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $90,623
Registered Nurses provide patient care and support. They work in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. They administer medications, monitor patients, and provide health education.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $90,106
Occupational Therapists help patients regain skills. They work with people who have injuries or disabilities. They create treatment plans and guide patients through exercises.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $53,635
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers use tools to shape and level the concrete. Companies like ABC Construction and XYZ Builders often hire for these positions.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $52,685
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Local eateries such as The Bistro and The Grill often need managers.
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Irrigation Technician
Average Salary: $45,818
Install and maintain irrigation systems. This involves setting up and repairing sprinklers and other watering systems. Companies like Green Thumb Irrigation and Aqua Solutions often hire for these roles.
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Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $45,440
Assist in the preparation and pouring of concrete. This role involves mixing and handling concrete materials. Builders like City Construction and Rural Builders often need laborers.
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Loader Operator
Average Salary: $41,659
Drive and operate loaders to move materials. This involves loading and unloading trucks and other vehicles. Companies such as Freight Forwarders and Material Movers often hire loaders.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $38,588
Maintain lawns by mowing, trimming, and applying treatments. This role requires using various lawn care equipment. Local landscaping companies often need skilled technicians.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $37,864
Cut and package meat for sale. This involves using knives and other tools to portion meat. Grocery stores and butcher shops often hire meat cutters.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,124
Design and maintain outdoor spaces. This includes planting, pruning, and landscaping. Companies like GreenScapes and Lawn Care Pros often need landscapers.
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To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $35,293
Prepare and package food for takeout orders. This involves ensuring orders are accurate and ready for customers. Fast-food chains and local restaurants often need To Go Specialists.
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Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $35,053
Advise customers on beauty products and services. This role involves recommending products and providing skincare advice. Beauty stores and salons often hire consultants.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, MO?

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Favorite Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $120,091
Favorite Healthcare Staffing offers top-tier salaries and benefits. They focus on providing healthcare staffing solutions and have a strong reputation in the industry.
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Nomad Health
Average Salary: $115,620
Nomad Health provides healthcare staffing services with competitive pay. They aim to connect healthcare professionals with facilities that need their skills.
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Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $102,573
Supplemental Health Care offers rewarding positions with a good salary. They specialize in placing healthcare workers in various roles across the country.
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Leaf Home
Average Salary: $99,644
Leaf Home provides home care services and offers attractive salaries. They focus on delivering quality care to individuals in their homes.
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FUSION Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $97,182
FUSION Medical Staffing offers competitive pay for healthcare professionals. They connect skilled workers with healthcare facilities in need.
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Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $80,173
Medical Solutions provides staffing solutions for healthcare professionals. They offer a good salary and various opportunities for career growth.
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EquipmentShare
Average Salary: $68,910
EquipmentShare offers equipment rental services and provides a decent salary. They focus on helping businesses with their equipment needs.
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CenterPointe Hospital Columbia
Average Salary: $65,949
CenterPointe Hospital Columbia offers healthcare services and provides a good salary. They focus on mental health and addiction treatment.
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Zimmer Communications
Average Salary: $65,076
Zimmer Communications offers communication services and provides a solid salary. They focus on providing reliable communication solutions.
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Nucleus Healthcare
Average Salary: $64,907
Nucleus Healthcare offers healthcare staffing services and provides a good salary. They aim to connect healthcare professionals with facilities in need.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, MO compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Columbia, Missouri, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Columbia stand at 85 on the cost of living index, which is 15% lower than the national average of 100. This suggests that residents can find more affordable housing options compared to the average American.
Additionally, groceries in Columbia are priced at 95 on the index, which is 5% higher than the average. However, this increase is relatively modest. Utilities cost 90, which is 10% below the national average. Transportation costs are at 88, indicating an 12% reduction. Healthcare costs are slightly higher, at 92, which is 2% above the average. Miscellaneous expenses are at 87, showing a 13% decrease. Overall, Columbia offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for many job seekers.