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What is the average salary in Columbia, SC?

The average salary in Columbia, SC is $59,914 per year.

Columbia, SC, offers a wide range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary stands at $59,914, indicating a stable job market. Professionals can expect competitive pay, making it an attractive location for job seekers.

Some of the top-paying jobs in Columbia include:

  • Chief executives: $225,500
  • Software developers: $185,686
  • Computer and information systems managers: $169,373
  • Agricultural managers: $153,059
  • General and operations managers: $136,745
  • Market research analysts: $120,432
  • Industrial engineers: $104,118
  • Construction managers: $87,805
  • Purchasing managers: $71,491
  • Loan officers: $55,177
  • Logisticians: $38,864

These figures highlight the diversity and potential for career growth in Columbia, SC.

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What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC?

Columbia, SC, offers a variety of high-paying career opportunities for job seekers. Physicians earn the highest salaries, averaging around $284,830 annually. General Dentists also enjoy a strong earning potential, with an average salary of about $244,487 per year. Other well-paying jobs include Paramedics, Clinical Psychologists, and Nurse Practitioners. Paramedics earn around $194,315 annually, while Clinical Psychologists can expect salaries near $145,369. Nurse Practitioners make an average of $138,379 a year. These careers provide excellent compensation and growth opportunities for those who pursue them.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbia, SC, highlighting Physician with the highest at $284,830 and Psychologist with the lowest at $113,629.
  1. Physician
    Average Salary: $284,830
    Doctors in Columbia diagnose and treat patients. They work in hospitals and private practices. They must have a medical degree and pass state exams.
    Find Physician jobs in Columbia, SC


  2. General Dentist
    Average Salary: $244,487
    Dentists in Columbia focus on oral health. They clean teeth and fix dental issues. They work in private offices and clinics. Education includes dental school and a license.
    Find General Dentist jobs in Columbia, SC


  3. Paramedic
    Average Salary: $194,315
    Paramedics respond to emergencies in Columbia. They provide medical care on scene. Training is through a certified program. They work for ambulance services.
    Find Paramedic jobs in Columbia, SC


  4. Clinical Psychologist
    Average Salary: $145,369
    Psychologists in Columbia help people with mental health. They conduct assessments and therapy. They work in hospitals and private clinics. A doctorate and license are needed.
    Find Clinical Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC


  5. Nurse Practitioner
    Average Salary: $138,379
    NPs in Columbia provide primary and specialty care. They see patients and prescribe treatment. They work in clinics and hospitals. A master's degree and certification are required.
    Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Columbia, SC


  6. Pharmacist
    Average Salary: $129,860
    Pharmacists in Columbia fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies. A pharmacy degree and license are needed. They ensure safe and effective medication use.
    Find Pharmacist jobs in Columbia, SC


  7. Software Engineer
    Average Salary: $122,041
    Software engineers in Columbia design and develop software. They work for tech companies and startups. A degree in computer science and coding skills are essential.
    Find Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC


  8. Counselor
    Average Salary: $115,540
    Counselors in Columbia help people with personal issues. They provide support and guidance. They work in schools, clinics, and private practice. A master's degree and counseling license are required.
    Find Counselor jobs in Columbia, SC


  9. School Psychologist
    Average Salary: $114,789
    School psychologists in Columbia support students. They work with teachers and parents. They assess students' needs. A degree and state license are necessary.
    Find School Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC


  10. Psychologist
    Average Salary: $113,629
    Psychologists in Columbia study human behavior. They conduct research and provide therapy. They work in hospitals and clinics. A doctorate and state license are needed.
    Find Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC

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

Finding a well-paying job without a degree is possible in Columbia, SC. Sales Inspectors lead the way, earning an average salary of $77,933. Kitchen Managers also make a good income, with an average of $68,556 annually. Additionally, roles such as Concrete Finisher, Canvasser, and Loader offer solid earnings. Concrete Finishers earn around $50,459, while Canvassers make about $48,433. Loaders can expect to earn approximately $45,177 per year. These jobs provide opportunities to earn a good living without needing a college degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbia, SC without a degree, highlighting Sales Inspector with the highest at $77,933 and Lawn Care Technician with the lowest at $35,504.
  1. Sales Inspector
    Average Salary: $77,933
    This position involves ensuring compliance with sales regulations. Working for local businesses, you will investigate sales practices. A strong understanding of local laws is key.
    Find Sales Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC


  2. Kitchen Manager
    Average Salary: $68,556
    Manage kitchen staff and operations. Oversee food preparation and inventory. Work in diverse restaurants. Attention to detail and time management are crucial.
    Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Columbia, SC


  3. Concrete Finisher
    Average Salary: $50,459
    Apply concrete to surfaces and smooth it out. Work on construction sites. Use hand and power tools. Physical stamina and precision are important.
    Find Concrete Finisher jobs in Columbia, SC


  4. Canvasser
    Average Salary: $48,433
    Gather information by asking questions. Conduct surveys and distribute materials. Work for marketing firms. Strong communication skills are needed.
    Find Canvasser jobs in Columbia, SC


  5. Loader
    Average Salary: $45,177
    Load and unload materials. Operate machinery to move items. Work in warehouses and shipping facilities. Physical strength and attention to safety are vital.
    Find Loader jobs in Columbia, SC


  6. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $44,421
    Oversee daily operations of a restaurant. Manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work in various dining establishments. Leadership and customer service skills are essential.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbia, SC


  7. Meat Cutter
    Average Salary: $38,033
    Cut and portion meat for sale. Work in grocery stores and butcher shops. Precision and knowledge of cuts are necessary. It involves repetitive tasks.
    Find Meat Cutter jobs in Columbia, SC


  8. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $38,026
    Assist customers and handle orders. Work in retail or service environments. Friendly and helpful attitude is important. Communication skills are key.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Columbia, SC


  9. Landscaper
    Average Salary: $36,330
    Maintain gardens and outdoor spaces. Work for landscaping companies. Use tools to plant, prune, and maintain greenery. Physical fitness and creativity are beneficial.
    Find Landscaper jobs in Columbia, SC


  10. Lawn Care Technician
    Average Salary: $35,504
    Maintain lawns and gardens. Work for lawn care services. Use tools to mow, edge, and trim. Attention to detail and physical ability are important.
    Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Columbia, SC

Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, SC?

Columbia, SC offers a range of high-paying job opportunities. At the top of the list is PwC, with an average salary of $182,206. Job seekers can also look to Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI) for strong compensation at $144,135 on average. These companies provide competitive pay and attractive benefits, making them good choices for those seeking better earning potential. Other notable employers include the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Unum, with average salaries of $111,425 and $110,673 respectively. CyberCoders, Systemtec, and Cushman & Wakefield also offer attractive average salaries for their employees. These companies provide stable and well-compensated career paths for those working in Columbia, SC.
Graph displaying company salaries in Columbia, SC, highlighting PwC with the highest at $182,206 and ATC Healthcare with the lowest at $91,662.
  1. PwC
    Average Salary: $182,206
    PwC is a global leader in consulting. It offers a variety of services like auditing, tax, and advisory. Employees benefit from strong growth opportunities.


  2. Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI)
    Average Salary: $144,135
    CCI is a software development company. It works with businesses to create custom software solutions. Employees enjoy a supportive work environment.


  3. LifeStance Health
    Average Salary: $130,881
    LifeStance Health is a mental health care company. It provides services to patients in need. Employees appreciate the company’s commitment to mental health.


  4. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
    Average Salary: $111,425
    The FBI is a federal law enforcement agency. It investigates crimes and protects national security. Employees work on critical missions that impact the country.


  5. Unum
    Average Salary: $110,673
    Unum offers insurance and financial protection services. It helps individuals with life, health, and disability coverage. Employees value the company’s dedication to customer service.


  6. CyberCoders
    Average Salary: $106,463
    CyberCoders connects tech talent with job opportunities. It specializes in IT and cybersecurity. Employees benefit from a dynamic and fast-paced work environment.


  7. Systemtec
    Average Salary: $103,762
    Systemtec is an IT consulting firm. It offers services like IT infrastructure and project management. Employees appreciate the company’s focus on innovation.


  8. Cushman & Wakefield
    Average Salary: $97,891
    Cushman & Wakefield is a commercial real estate services company. It provides services like property management and leasing. Employees enjoy the industry-leading reputation of the company.


  9. K&B Transportation
    Average Salary: $94,540
    K&B Transportation is a logistics and transportation company. It offers services like freight and trucking. Employees value the company’s strong safety record.


  10. ATC Healthcare
    Average Salary: $91,662
    ATC Healthcare provides staffing solutions for the healthcare industry. It offers temporary and permanent staffing. Employees appreciate the company’s flexible work options.

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

Columbia, SC, has a cost of living index that is slightly lower than the nationwide average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious individuals. Specifically, the overall cost of living in Columbia is about 92, which is 8% lower than the average of 100. This index takes into account various expenses, including housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous items. Breaking down the categories, Columbia residents benefit from significantly lower housing costs, which are 15% below the national average. Additionally, groceries and utilities hover around the average, while transportation costs are 10% lower. Healthcare and miscellaneous costs are also slightly below the national average, providing further savings for those living in Columbia.
Cost of living comparison graph for Columbia, SC vs. Nationwide: housing 15% lower, groceries 5% lower, utilities 2% higher, transportation 10% lower, healthcare 12% lower, miscellaneous 6% lower.

Columbia, SC, has a cost of living index that offers some insights for those considering relocating or just curious about living expenses. Housing, for instance, stands at 85, meaning it costs 15% less than the nationwide average. This makes it a potentially attractive option for those looking to save on housing costs. Additionally, groceries in Columbia are priced at 95, only 5% above the national average, offering a small but noticeable saving in everyday expenses.


Utilities in Columbia are slightly higher at 102, indicating a 2% increase over the nationwide average. This might be a consideration for those who use a lot of utilities. Transportation costs in Columbia are at 90, meaning they are 10% below the national average. This can be a significant benefit for those who rely on cars. Healthcare costs in Columbia stand at 88, which is 12% less than the national average, presenting a clear financial advantage for residents. Lastly, miscellaneous expenses are at 94, only 6% above the national average, keeping overall costs relatively moderate.

There are 4,448 job openings in Columbia, SC, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Columbia, SC

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City
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Columbia, SC
4,448 Job Openings