Overview Salaries

Salaries in Columbia, SC

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Columbia, SC?

The average salary in Columbia, SC is $59,854 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Columbia, SC, showing an average salary of $59,854 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Columbia, SC, showing an average salary of $4,988 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Columbia, SC, showing an average salary of $1,151 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Columbia, SC, showing an average salary of $29 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Columbia, SC, offers a range of job opportunities with varying salary levels. The city's average yearly salary stands at around $59,854. This average includes a diverse set of salaries, from entry-level positions to more senior roles.

Here are some common salary ranges found in different sectors:

  • Lower-tier positions earn between $22,800 and $39,477.
  • Mid-tier jobs pay between $56,155 and $89,509.
  • Higher-tier roles range from $106,186 to over $206,000.
These figures provide a snapshot of the earning potential across different job categories in Columbia, SC.

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What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC?

Columbia, South Carolina, offers some of the best opportunities for high-paying jobs. Physicians lead the way with an impressive average salary, followed closely by general dentists. These roles require specialized education and training, making them highly rewarding. Beyond healthcare, paramedics and clinical psychologists also enjoy competitive pay. Paramedics offer critical emergency care, while clinical psychologists provide mental health services. Other well-paid positions include nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and software engineers. Each of these jobs plays a vital role in the community, offering both financial stability and personal fulfillment.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbia, SC, highlighting Physician with the highest at $286,663 and Counselor with the lowest at $113,127.

  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $286,663
    They diagnose and treat illnesses. They work for hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Top employers include Prisma Health and MUSC Health.
    Find Physician jobs in Columbia, SC


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $244,795
    They provide routine care for teeth and gums. They work in dental offices and clinics. Notable employers include DentaQuest and Columbia Dental Associates.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Columbia, SC


  3. Paramedic
    Average Salary: $168,325
    They respond to emergencies and provide pre-hospital care. They work for ambulance services. Major employers include American Medical Response and local fire departments.
    Find Paramedic jobs in Columbia, SC


  4. Clinical Psychologist
    Average Salary: $144,828
    They assess, diagnose, and treat mental health disorders. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Key employers include Palmetto Health and MUSC Health.
    Find Clinical Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC


  5. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $139,329
    They provide primary and specialty care. They work in various healthcare settings. Major employers include Prisma Health and MUSC Health.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Columbia, SC


  6. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $129,521
    They prepare and dispense medications. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. Notable employers include CVS Health and Walgreens.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Columbia, SC


  7. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $119,857
    They design and develop software applications. They work for tech companies and in various industries. Major employers include IBM and Accenture.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC


  8. School Psychologist
    Average Salary: $113,439
    They support students’ mental health and learning. They work in schools and educational institutions. Key employers include Richland School District One and Lexington-Richland School District Five.
    Find School Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC


  9. Psychologist
    Average Salary: $113,372
    They study human behavior and emotions. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Notable employers include Palmetto Health and MUSC Health.
    Find Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC


  10. Counselor
    Average Salary: $113,127
    They help individuals with personal issues. They work in counseling centers, schools, and private practices. Major employers include Columbia Counseling and Prisma Health.
    Find Counselor jobs in Columbia, SC

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

Columbia, SC offers various high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Sales Inspectors can earn an average of $77,242 per year, providing a lucrative opportunity for those with strong negotiation and sales skills. Kitchen Managers and Restaurant Managers also command impressive salaries, with averages around $67,091 and $44,853, respectively, making them excellent choices for individuals interested in the food service industry. Other high-paying roles in Columbia include Concrete Finishers, earning $51,543 annually, and Loaders, with an average salary of $44,774. These positions offer good income potential and are suitable for individuals who prefer hands-on work and do not require a college degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbia, SC without a degree, highlighting Sales Inspector with the highest at $77,242 and Floor Tech with the lowest at $32,957.

  1. Sales Inspector
    Average Salary: $77,242
    Sales inspectors inspect merchandise and products in stores. They ensure that the standards set by companies are met. Companies like Walmart and Target offer these roles.
    Find Sales Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC


  2. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $67,091
    Kitchen managers oversee kitchen staff and daily operations. They ensure meals are prepared on time and to quality standards. Restaurants such as Olive Garden and Chili’s have these positions.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Columbia, SC


  3. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $51,543
    Concrete finishers prepare and pour concrete for various structures. They smooth and level the surface. Construction companies and contractors hire for these jobs.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Columbia, SC


  4. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $49,901
    Canvassers contact potential customers to gather information. They often promote services or products. Companies such as political campaign teams and retail stores seek canvassers.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Columbia, SC


  5. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $44,853
    Restaurant managers oversee daily restaurant operations. They manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Many local chains and independent restaurants offer these roles.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbia, SC


  6. Loader
    Average Salary: $44,774
    Loaders move products and materials around a warehouse or loading area. They use machinery to load and unload shipments. Companies involved in logistics and freight often hire loaders.
    Find Loader jobs in Columbia, SC


  7. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $37,545
    Meat cutters slice and package meat for sale. They ensure the meat meets quality standards. Grocery stores and butcher shops need meat cutters for their teams.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Columbia, SC


  8. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $36,316
    Landscapers maintain outdoor spaces. They plant, prune, and care for lawns and gardens. Landscaping companies and homeowners hire landscapers for their projects.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Columbia, SC


  9. Lawn Care Technician
    Average Salary: $34,797
    Lawn care technicians perform lawn maintenance tasks. They mow, water, and treat lawns. Lawn care companies often hire technicians to meet customer needs.
    Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Columbia, SC


  10. Floor Tech
    Average Salary: $32,957
    Floor technicians install and repair flooring. They work on various surfaces like wood and tile. Companies specializing in flooring services provide these opportunities.
    Find Floor Tech jobs in Columbia, SC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, SC?

Job seekers in Columbia, SC, can find strong opportunities with several top companies known for competitive salaries. Leading this group is PwC, which offers an average salary of $182,169. This is followed closely by Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI) at $145,511, and LifeStance Health at $131,164. Other prominent employers such as the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Unum, and CyberCoders also provide attractive compensation packages. The FBI offers an average salary of $110,604, while Unum and CyberCoders pay $109,932 and $107,906 respectively. Companies like Systemtec, Cushman & Wakefield, ATC Healthcare, and Best Choice Roofing also provide solid income opportunities, with average salaries ranging from $91,069 to $102,894. These figures highlight the variety of well-paying employers available in Columbia.
Graph displaying company salaries in Columbia, SC, highlighting PwC with the highest at $182,169 and Best Choice Roofing with the lowest at $88,904.

  1. PwC
    Average Salary: $182,169
    PwC is a global leader in consulting, tax, and assurance. It helps companies solve complex business issues and build trust with their stakeholders. PwC offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for professionals.


  2. Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI)
    Average Salary: $145,511
    CCI is a full-service information technology company. They provide IT consulting, managed services, and technology solutions. CCI fosters a culture of innovation and professional growth.


  3. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $131,164
    LifeStance Health is a mental health care company. They offer a range of services from therapy to psychiatry. LifeStance is dedicated to improving access to mental health services.


  4. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
    Average Salary: $110,604
    The FBI is a federal law enforcement agency. It protects the United States from terrorist and criminal threats. The FBI offers a challenging and impactful career for those who want to serve their country.


  5. Unum
    Average Salary: $109,932
    Unum provides insurance to protect people in times of need. They offer life, disability, and critical illness coverage. Unum values its employees and offers a supportive work environment.


  6. CyberCoders
    Average Salary: $107,906
    CyberCoders is a staffing and recruiting firm. They specialize in technology and IT jobs. CyberCoders is known for its positive work culture and strong industry connections.


  7. Systemtec
    Average Salary: $102,894
    Systemtec is a technology solutions provider. They offer IT consulting and managed services. Systemtec is committed to helping clients achieve their technology goals.


  8. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $98,076
    Cushman & Wakefield is a global real estate services firm. They offer a range of services from property management to investment sales. The company values innovation and professional development.


  9. ATC Healthcare
    Average Salary: $91,069
    ATC Healthcare provides staffing solutions for healthcare providers. They offer temporary and permanent job placements. ATC Healthcare is dedicated to improving healthcare access.


  10. Best Choice Roofing
    Average Salary: $88,904
    Best Choice Roofing is a leading provider of roofing services. They offer installation, repair, and maintenance. The company is committed to quality and customer satisfaction.

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

The cost of living index in Columbia, SC, reveals that the area generally offers a more affordable lifestyle compared to the nationwide average. With the housing index at 83, housing costs in Columbia are 17% below the national average of 100. This suggests that potential residents could save a significant portion of their income on housing alone. Other categories also reflect lower expenses. Groceries in Columbia cost 98% of the national average, with only a 2% difference. Utilities stand at 95%, utilities costs remain slightly below the national average. Transportation costs are at 92%, while healthcare and miscellaneous costs sit at 87% and 90%, respectively. These figures indicate that Columbia offers a generally favorable cost of living for various essential expenses.
Cost of living comparison graph for Columbia, SC vs. Nationwide: housing 17% lower, groceries 2% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 8% lower, healthcare 13% lower, miscellaneous 10% lower.

Job seekers looking at Columbia, SC, will find the cost of living to be quite favorable compared to the national average. Housing costs in Columbia are about 17% lower than the national average, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable living spaces. This reduction translates to real savings, allowing residents to allocate funds to other essential needs.


Columbia also shows some competitive advantages in other areas. Groceries are only 2% below the national average, and utilities are just 5% under the nationwide index. Transportation costs are also slightly lower at 8% below average, providing additional savings for commuters. Healthcare costs, though still under the average, are 13% lower, offering some relief in this often costly category. Even miscellaneous expenses are about 10% lower than the national average, adding to the overall affordability of living in Columbia, SC.

There are 3,460 job openings in Columbia, SC, today!

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Columbia, SC
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