What is the average salary in Columbia, SC?
Columbia, SC, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in Columbia is $59,721. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Salaries can vary widely based on the industry and the specific role.
Job seekers in Columbia can find competitive pay in several sectors. The top-paying industries include finance, healthcare, and technology. For example, finance professionals can earn around $122,841 per year, while healthcare workers might see salaries up to $139,523 annually. Technology roles also offer attractive salaries, with some positions reaching up to $156,205 per year. These figures highlight the diverse earning potential available in Columbia.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC?

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Physician
Average Salary: $286,278
Doctors in Columbia work in hospitals and clinics. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They often work with Prisma Health and MUSC Health.
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General Dentist
Average Salary: $243,297
Dentists in Columbia focus on oral health. They perform cleanings, fillings, and extractions. They work in private practices and clinics. Many dentists are part of the South Carolina Dental Association.
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Paramedic
Average Salary: $158,221
Paramedics in Columbia respond to emergencies. They provide medical care on the scene. They work for local fire departments and private ambulance services. They often work with Richland County Fire Rescue.
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Clinical Psychologist
Average Salary: $144,736
Clinical psychologists in Columbia help people with mental health issues. They conduct therapy sessions and assessments. They work in hospitals, clinics, and private practices. Many work with the South Carolina Department of Mental Health.
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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $139,611
Nurse practitioners in Columbia provide primary care. They diagnose and treat illnesses. They often work in clinics and hospitals. They frequently collaborate with Prisma Health and MUSC Health.
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Pharmacist
Average Salary: $128,752
Pharmacists in Columbia fill prescriptions and advise patients. They work in pharmacies and hospitals. They ensure medications are safe and effective. They often work with CVS Pharmacy and Walgreens.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $118,362
Software engineers in Columbia develop applications and software. They work in tech companies and startups. They often collaborate with companies like IBM and Cisco. They focus on creating efficient and user-friendly software.
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Psychologist
Average Salary: $114,314
Psychologists in Columbia study human behavior. They conduct research and provide therapy. They work in universities, hospitals, and private practices. They often work with the University of South Carolina.
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School Psychologist
Average Salary: $112,775
School psychologists in Columbia support students' mental health. They work in schools and provide counseling. They help students with learning and emotional challenges. They often collaborate with the Richland County School District.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $111,576
Counselors in Columbia help people with personal issues. They provide therapy and support. They work in private practices, schools, and clinics. They often work with the South Carolina Counseling Association.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbia, SC without a degree?

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Sales Inspector
Average Salary: $77,836
This role involves inspecting sales practices. It requires keen attention to detail. Companies like ABC Sales and XYZ Inspections offer opportunities in this field.
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Kitchen Manager
Average Salary: $65,512
Manage kitchen operations. Oversee staff and ensure smooth service. Work at top restaurants like The Gourmet Bistro and City Diner.
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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $51,543
Prepare and finish concrete surfaces. Use tools to smooth and shape concrete. Companies like BuildRight and Concrete Solutions need skilled finishers.
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Canvasser
Average Salary: $51,201
Promote products or services door-to-door. Engage with customers and gather feedback. Work with local businesses and marketing firms.
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Loader
Average Salary: $44,728
Load and unload materials. Operate machinery to move goods. Opportunities exist at warehouses and logistics companies.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $44,307
Oversee daily operations. Manage staff and ensure customer satisfaction. Work at popular eateries like The Local Grill and Diner Delights.
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Meat Cutter
Average Salary: $37,473
Cut and package meat. Follow safety and quality standards. Work in grocery stores or butcher shops.
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Landscaper
Average Salary: $35,695
Maintain outdoor spaces. Plant, prune, and care for plants. Companies like Green Thumb Landscaping offer many opportunities.
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Lawn Care Technician
Average Salary: $34,457
Maintain lawns and gardens. Mow, trim, and water plants. Work for local landscaping services.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $32,828
Clean and maintain floors. Use machines and chemicals for deep cleaning. Opportunities are available in commercial and residential settings.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbia, SC?

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PwC
Average Salary: $181,102
PwC is a global leader in professional services. They offer audit, assurance, consulting, and tax services. They value innovation and teamwork.
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Computer Consultants International, Inc. (CCI)
Average Salary: $145,979
CCI is a technology consulting firm. They provide IT solutions and services to businesses. They focus on delivering quality and efficiency.
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LifeStance Health
Average Salary: $131,804
LifeStance Health is a mental health care company. They offer therapy and psychiatry services. They aim to improve patient care and outcomes.
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Benevis
Average Salary: $115,493
Benevis is a behavioral health care provider. They offer treatment for addiction and mental health issues. They focus on patient-centered care.
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Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)
Average Salary: $110,452
The FBI is a federal agency. They protect and defend the U.S. against threats. They work on criminal investigations and national security.
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Unum
Average Salary: $108,963
Unum is an insurance provider. They offer life, disability, and critical illness insurance. They focus on helping people protect their financial future.
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gpac
Average Salary: $106,830
gpac is a recruitment firm. They help companies find the right talent. They focus on building strong relationships with clients and candidates.
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CyberCoders
Average Salary: $106,495
CyberCoders is a tech recruitment company. They connect tech companies with skilled professionals. They focus on matching the right talent with the right job.
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Systemtec
Average Salary: $102,894
Systemtec is a technology company. They offer IT services and solutions. They focus on delivering quality and efficiency to their clients.
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Cushman & Wakefield
Average Salary: $97,670
Cushman & Wakefield is a real estate services firm. They offer property management, leasing, and investment services. They focus on delivering value to their clients.
How does the cost of living in Columbia, SC compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Columbia, SC, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Columbia stand at 85, indicating that residents spend 15% less than the national average on housing. This lower cost can be particularly appealing to job seekers looking to maximize their savings or invest in other areas of their budget.
In addition to housing, the cost of groceries in Columbia is slightly below the national average, with an index of 95. This means that groceries cost 5% less than the average American city. Utilities, another significant expense, are at 97, which is just 3% above the national average. Transportation costs in Columbia are at 90, meaning they are 10% lower than the nationwide average. Healthcare costs, which are often a major concern, are at 92, indicating a 2% lower cost compared to the national average. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like clothing, entertainment, and personal care, are at 88, reflecting an 8% savings compared to the national average. Overall, Columbia offers a cost-effective living environment for many essential expenses.



