What is the average salary in Columbia, SC?
Columbia, SC, offers a diverse job market with varying salary levels. The average yearly salary in the area stands at $61,068. Many people find jobs in sectors like education, healthcare, and retail. These jobs offer good pay and many opportunities for growth.
Some of the top-paying industries in Columbia include professional services, manufacturing, and finance. Below is a look at some of the average salaries in these fields:
- Education: $22,350
- Healthcare: $39,068
- Retail: $55,786
- Professional Services: $72,505
- Manufacturing: $89,223
- Finance: $105,941
- Information Technology: $122,659
- Engineering: $139,377
- Management: $156,095
- Science: $172,814
- Legal: $189,532
Exploring these options can help job seekers find a role that matches their skills and career goals.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC?

-
Physician
Average Salary: $278,934
These professionals diagnose and treat health issues. They work in various hospitals and clinics. Notable employers include Prisma Health and MUSC Health.
Find Physician jobs in Columbia, SC
-
General Dentist
Average Salary: $245,927
Dentists provide oral care, perform surgeries, and manage patient records. They work in private practices and dental clinics. Local practices include Columbia Dental Group and River Region Dental Care.
Find General Dentist jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Paramedic
Average Salary: $216,943
They respond to emergencies and provide medical care. These workers often work for public services. Key employers include Columbia Fire Department and local ambulances.
Find Paramedic jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $140,884
They offer primary and specialty care to patients. These professionals work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Employers include Prisma Health and Bon Secours St. Francis Health System.
Find Nurse Practitioner jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Pharmacist
Average Salary: $130,047
They fill prescriptions and advise on medications. Pharmacists work in pharmacies and retail stores. Notable pharmacies include CVS and Walgreens.
Find Pharmacist jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Software Engineer
Average Salary: $124,489
They design and develop software systems. These professionals work for tech companies and IT firms. Key employers include IBM and Accenture.
Find Software Engineer jobs in Columbia, SC
-
School Psychologist
Average Salary: $114,948
They assess and counsel students. They work in public and private schools. The Richland School District and Lexington-Richland School District Five are notable employers.
Find School Psychologist jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Sales Director
Average Salary: $114,743
They lead sales teams and develop strategies. They work in various industries, including tech and healthcare. Employers include IBM and Prisma Health.
Find Sales Director jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Counselor
Average Salary: $112,527
They provide guidance and support for personal issues. Counselors work in schools, private practices, and community centers. Employers include the Richland School District and local non-profits.
Find Counselor jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Programmer
Average Salary: $107,530
They write and test code for applications. Programmers work for tech companies and IT firms. Key employers include IBM and Accenture.
Find Programmer jobs in Columbia, SC
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC without a degree?

-
Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $77,433
Sales inspectors oversee sales operations and ensure compliance. They work with companies like XYZ Sales and ABC Inspections. Their focus is on maximizing sales while maintaining high standards.
Find Sales Inspector jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $69,656
Kitchen managers oversee daily kitchen operations. They ensure food quality and staff efficiency. Working with eateries like Chef's Table and Diner's Delight, they keep the kitchen running smoothly.
Find Kitchen Manager jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Canvasser
Average Salary: $47,005
Canvassers reach out to potential customers. They gather information and promote products or services. They work for local businesses and political campaigns, often engaging with the community.
Find Canvasser jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Loader
Average Salary: $44,692
Loaders handle materials and products. They load and unload items from trucks and storage areas. Companies like Logistics Inc. and Supply Chain Solutions employ loaders to manage inventory efficiently.
Find Loader jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $44,315
Restaurant managers run daily operations. They manage staff, oversee customer service, and ensure smooth service. Working for establishments like The Bistro and Grill House, they keep the business thriving.
Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $38,112
Meat cutters prepare cuts of meat. They follow safety and hygiene standards. They work at grocery stores and butcher shops, ensuring high-quality cuts for customers.
Find Meat Cutter jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Landscaper
Average Salary: $37,929
Landscapers maintain outdoor spaces. They plant, prune, and manage lawns and gardens. They work for landscape companies and residential clients, creating beautiful outdoor areas.
Find Landscaper jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Service Team Member
Average Salary: $37,012
Service team members handle customer needs. They provide support and ensure satisfaction. Working for companies like Customer Care and Service Solutions, they interact directly with clients.
Find Service Team Member jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $35,622
Lawn care technicians maintain lawns. They mow, trim, and treat grass. They work for landscaping services, ensuring properties look neat and healthy.
Find Lawn Care Technician jobs in Columbia, SC
-
Floor Tech
Average Salary: $33,807
Floor techs clean and maintain floors. They sweep, mop, and wax surfaces. Working in commercial and residential settings, they ensure a clean and safe environment.
Find Floor Tech jobs in Columbia, SC
Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, SC?

-
PwC
Average Salary: $180,950
PwC is a leading global provider of assurance, tax, and consulting services. They help companies navigate complex business challenges.
-
Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI)
Average Salary: $144,889
CCI offers IT consulting and staffing services. They provide technology solutions to meet the needs of businesses.
-
Heartland Dental
Average Salary: $144,405
Heartland Dental supports dentists with administrative and clinical support. They focus on providing quality dental care to communities.
-
LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $136,113
LifeStance Health offers mental health services. They work to make mental health care accessible and effective for patients.
-
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Average Salary: $113,293
The FBI protects and defends the United States. They conduct investigations and enforce federal laws.
-
Unum
Average Salary: $112,535
Unum provides insurance and financial protection services. They help people protect their income and health.
-
Systemtec
Average Salary: $103,479
Systemtec offers IT services and consulting. They focus on providing solutions that meet the technology needs of businesses.
-
Cushman & Wakefield
Average Salary: $99,186
Cushman & Wakefield is a real estate services firm. They help clients with property and facility management.
-
Advanced Correctional Healthcare
Average Salary: $99,028
Advanced Correctional Healthcare provides health care services to correctional facilities. They focus on improving health outcomes in these settings.
-
Best Choice Roofing
Average Salary: $90,592
Best Choice Roofing specializes in roofing services. They offer residential and commercial roofing solutions.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, SC compare to the national average?

Columbia, SC, shows a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing index stands at 85, meaning housing costs in Columbia are 15% less than the national average. This makes housing more affordable, providing a potential savings opportunity for residents.
For groceries, the cost of living index in Columbia is 95, which is 5% less than the national average. This means that shopping for food in Columbia is slightly cheaper than in the average U.S. city. Utilities in Columbia are priced at 92, which is 8% below the national average, offering another area where residents might find savings. Transportation costs are slightly higher, with an index of 96, reflecting a 4% increase. Healthcare, with an index of 90, shows an 10% decrease from the national average, indicating lower healthcare expenses. Miscellaneous costs are at 88, which is 12% below the nationwide average, providing additional savings in various other expenses. Overall, Columbia offers some cost advantages compared to the national average.



