What is the average salary in Columbia, MO?
Columbia, MO, offers a variety of job opportunities with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary stands at $55,303. This figure reflects the diverse job market in the area, where different industries pay differently. Salaries range from $29,500 to $144,196. This wide range allows for many options, depending on skills and career goals.
Most jobs in Columbia pay between $39,927 and $71,208. These mid-range salaries are common in sectors such as retail, healthcare, and education. Higher salaries, from $81,635 to $144,196, are available in fields like technology, finance, and professional services. Job seekers can find good compensation in these areas, especially with specialized skills and experience.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO?

-
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $136,882
Pharmacists work at local pharmacies and hospitals. They help customers by filling prescriptions and providing advice on medications. They work closely with physicians to ensure patients receive the correct treatment.
Find Pharmacist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $123,009
Nurse Practitioners provide healthcare services, often in clinics and hospitals. They diagnose and treat illnesses, prescribe medications, and offer health advice. They work in collaboration with doctors and other healthcare professionals.
Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Physician Assistant
Average Salary: $121,048
Physician Assistants work in various healthcare settings, including hospitals and private practices. They examine patients, diagnose illnesses, and prescribe treatments. They work closely with doctors to provide comprehensive care.
Find Physician Assistant jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Traveling Nurse
Average Salary: $106,276
Traveling Nurses work in different locations, often in hospitals and clinics. They provide patient care and support during assignments. They adapt quickly to new environments and work with diverse teams.
Find Traveling Nurse jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Radiologic Technologist
Average Salary: $98,352
Radiologic Technologists work in hospitals and imaging centers. They operate imaging equipment to create diagnostic images. They ensure patient comfort and safety during procedures, working alongside radiologists.
Find Radiologic Technologist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $98,206
Outside Sales Representatives work for various companies, selling products or services. They visit businesses and meet potential customers. They build relationships and promote products to secure sales.
Find Outside Sales Representative jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $93,930
Occupational Therapists work in rehabilitation centers and hospitals. They help patients recover from injuries or illnesses. They develop treatment plans and guide patients through therapeutic activities.
Find Occupational Therapist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Dental Hygienist
Average Salary: $91,814
Dental Hygienists work in dental offices, providing oral care. They clean teeth, take x-rays, and educate patients on oral health. They work alongside dentists to ensure patients have healthy teeth.
Find Dental Hygienist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Respiratory Therapist
Average Salary: $91,302
Respiratory Therapists work in hospitals and clinics. They treat patients with breathing issues. They set up and monitor equipment, providing therapy and support to help patients breathe better.
Find Respiratory Therapist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $89,692
Registered Nurses work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They provide patient care and support. They work closely with doctors and other healthcare staff to ensure patients receive the best care.
Find Registered Nurse jobs in Columbia, MO
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, MO without a degree?

-
Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $57,039
Professionals apply concrete to sidewalks, buildings, and roads. They work for construction companies. They smooth and texture surfaces. They also use special tools for their work.
Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Concrete Laborer
Average Salary: $45,375
Workers assist concrete finishers. They mix and pour concrete. They clean tools and materials. This role involves physical work. It takes place on construction sites for local businesses.
Find Concrete Laborer jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Landscaper
Average Salary: $38,776
Individuals maintain outdoor spaces. They plant flowers and trees. They cut grass and trim shrubs. Many work for landscaping companies serving local homes.
Find Landscaper jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $38,435
Managers oversee kitchen staff. They prepare schedules and ensure food safety. They work in local restaurants and cafes. They coordinate with chefs and servers to keep the kitchen running smoothly.
Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Columbia, MO
-
To Go Specialist
Average Salary: $36,917
Specialists prepare food for customers to take away. They pack orders quickly and safely. They work in fast-food restaurants and cafes. They ensure every order is correct and ready on time.
Find To Go Specialist jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Floor Tech
Average Salary: $35,083
Technicians clean and maintain floors in buildings. They sweep and mop. They also use special equipment to clean. They work for cleaning companies that serve local businesses.
Find Floor Tech jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Beauty Consultant
Average Salary: $34,994
Consultants help customers choose beauty products. They provide advice and recommendations. They work in local beauty stores. They stay updated on the latest trends in beauty and skincare.
Find Beauty Consultant jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Housekeeping
Average Salary: $34,966
Housekeepers clean rooms in hotels and motels. They change linens and tidy up. They work for local hospitality companies. They ensure guests have a comfortable stay.
Find Housekeeping jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $34,082
Groundskeepers maintain outdoor areas. They mow lawns and trim hedges. They work for local parks and recreational facilities. They ensure that public spaces are well-kept.
Find Groundskeeper jobs in Columbia, MO
-
Server Assistant
Average Salary: $33,882
Assistants help servers in restaurants. They take orders and serve food. They work in local dining establishments. They ensure that customers have a pleasant dining experience.
Find Server Assistant jobs in Columbia, MO
Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, MO?

-
Favorite Healthcare Staffing
Average Salary: $129,686
Favorite Healthcare Staffing provides healthcare staffing solutions, offering high-paying jobs in nursing and allied health. They value their employees and offer competitive salaries.
-
Leaf Home
Average Salary: $111,316
Leaf Home is a leader in home health care. They provide excellent benefits and a supportive work environment, making it a great place to work with a high salary.
-
Supplemental Health Care
Average Salary: $105,072
Supplemental Health Care specializes in healthcare staffing and recruitment. They offer attractive salaries and career growth opportunities for their employees.
-
FUSION Medical Staffing
Average Salary: $98,541
FUSION Medical Staffing focuses on connecting healthcare professionals with top facilities. They offer competitive pay and a strong support system for their staff.
-
Medical Solutions
Average Salary: $76,093
Medical Solutions is a healthcare staffing agency that provides rewarding opportunities in various medical fields. They offer a good salary and a dynamic work environment.
-
EquipmentShare
Average Salary: $75,364
EquipmentShare specializes in equipment rental and sales. They offer stable jobs with a good salary and a supportive team culture.
-
CenterPointe Hospital Columbia
Average Salary: $69,475
CenterPointe Hospital Columbia provides behavioral health services. They offer competitive salaries and a chance to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives.
-
University of Missouri
Average Salary: $63,551
The University of Missouri offers a variety of job opportunities in education and research. They provide a good salary and a chance to be part of a prestigious institution.
-
Camping World
Average Salary: $63,358
Camping World is a leading retailer in the RV and outdoor industry. They offer a good salary and a dynamic work environment for those passionate about camping and outdoor activities.
-
Boone Health
Average Salary: $63,335
Boone Health provides healthcare services with a focus on patient care. They offer competitive salaries and a chance to work in a caring community.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, MO compare to the national average?

The cost of living index in Columbia, Missouri, presents a mix of lower and higher expenses compared to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing index in Columbia stands at 85, meaning it costs 15% less than the national average. This could make housing more affordable for many job seekers, offering a potential advantage in terms of living expenses.
Columbia's cost for groceries is slightly above the average, at 92. This means groceries are about 2% less expensive than the national average. Utilities in Columbia are also slightly above the average, with an index of 95. This means utilities cost 5% less than the national average. This combination of lower housing and utility costs can greatly affect one's overall living expenses positively. Transportation in Columbia has an index of 90, suggesting it is 10% less expensive than the national average. Healthcare, however, is slightly higher at 97, which means it costs about 7% more than the national average. Despite this, the overall lower costs in housing and utilities can help balance the increased healthcare expenses.



