What is the average salary in Columbus, GA?
Columbus, GA, offers a variety of salary opportunities across different sectors. On average, workers earn about $54,880 per year. This average includes salaries from many different jobs. Some of the highest-paying jobs offer over $100,000 each year, while entry-level jobs start at around $20,500.
Here are the main industries with their average salaries:
- Management: $147,409
- Business and Financial Operations: $131,545
- Computer and Mathematical: $115,682
- Healthcare Practitioners and Technical: $99,818
- Life, Physical, and Social Science: $83,955
- Legal: $68,091
- Arts, Design, Entertainment, Sports, and Media: $52,227
- Education, Training, and Library: $36,364
- Office and Administrative Support: $20,500
- Other services: $179,136
- Building and Grounds Cleaning and Maintenance: $163,273
What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, GA?

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Nurse Practitioner
Average Salary: $131,854
Nurse Practitioners play a key role in healthcare, often working in clinics and hospitals. They diagnose illnesses and manage treatment plans. Many NPs work in facilities like St. Francis Hospital.
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Behavior Analyst
Average Salary: $108,817
Behavior Analysts focus on helping individuals develop better habits and social skills. They work in schools and clinics to provide tailored interventions. Companies like ABA Centers of America employ many BAs.
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Software Engineer
Average Salary: $100,626
Software Engineers create and maintain software applications. They work on everything from mobile apps to complex systems. Local tech companies and software firms hire these professionals.
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Speech Language Pathologist
Average Salary: $99,292
SLPs help individuals with communication and swallowing disorders. They work in schools, hospitals, and private practices. Facilities like Encompass Health offer many opportunities.
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Occupational Therapist
Average Salary: $97,378
Occupational Therapists assist patients in regaining independence in daily activities. They work in rehabilitation centers and schools. Many OTs find work with companies such as Select Medical.
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CDL Driver
Average Salary: $92,455
CDL Drivers transport goods and materials. They need to follow safety regulations and manage delivery schedules. Local trucking companies often need experienced CDL drivers.
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Counselor
Average Salary: $89,848
Counselors offer mental health support to individuals and families. They work in schools, clinics, and private practices. Many counselors are employed by organizations like Family Service Agency.
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Outside Sales Representative
Average Salary: $84,896
Sales Reps build relationships with clients to promote and sell products. They often travel and meet with businesses. Companies in the area rely on sales reps to grow their customer base.
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Respiratory Therapist
Average Salary: $82,335
Respiratory Therapists treat patients with breathing issues. They work in hospitals and outpatient clinics. Many work with facilities like Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital.
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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $82,072
RNs provide patient care in various settings. They monitor health, administer medication, and support doctors. Many RNs work in hospitals and clinics like St. Francis Hospital.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, GA without a degree?

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Concrete Finisher
Average Salary: $46,045
This role involves smoothing and finishing concrete surfaces. Workers often operate in construction sites and warehouses. Companies like B & D Concrete and Custom Concrete Solutions are prominent in this field.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $33,641
Housekeepers maintain cleanliness in homes, hotels, and offices. They organize, clean, and disinfect spaces. Marriott and Hilton offer various housekeeping opportunities.
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Loader
Average Salary: $32,057
Loaders transport materials within a facility. They use forklifts and other equipment. Many jobs are available with companies like The Kroger Co. and Walmart.
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Recreation Assistant
Average Salary: $31,923
Recreation assistants organize and lead activities for various groups. They work in parks and recreational centers. The City of Columbus is a key employer.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,464
Line cooks prepare food in restaurants and cafes. They work quickly under pressure. Popular employers include Golden Corral and Cracker Barrel.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $30,197
Groundskeepers maintain the grounds of properties and facilities. They perform landscaping tasks. Many jobs are available with property management companies like Greystar.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,824
Baristas prepare and serve coffee beverages. They work in cafes and restaurants. Starbuck's and local coffee shops hire for this role.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $27,677
Kitchen team members help prepare and cook meals. They often work in fast-paced environments. Panera Bread and local diners offer many positions.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $26,277
Dishwashers clean dishes and utensils. They work in restaurants and cafeterias. Popular employers include Applebee's and Cracker Barrel.
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Floor Tech
Average Salary: $26,050
Floor techs maintain the appearance of facilities. They sweep, mop, and polish floors. Many jobs are available with facilities management companies like ARAMARK.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, GA?

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Amedisys
Average Salary: $91,315
Amedisys offers home health, hospice, and personal care services. They have a strong reputation for quality care and employee well-being.
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Global Payments Inc.
Average Salary: $87,067
Global Payments Inc. is a leading payment technology company. They offer payment processing services for businesses, which is a fast-paced and important sector.
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Aflac
Average Salary: $80,537
Aflac provides insurance products to help protect people from financial hardship due to medical emergencies. Their focus on customer service and employee satisfaction is notable.
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HUMAN PERFORMANCE AND REHABILITATION CENTERS, INC
Average Salary: $78,280
This company specializes in rehabilitation services. They focus on improving patient care and quality of life, making it a rewarding place to work.
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Synovus
Average Salary: $77,126
Synovus is a financial services company that offers banking and investment services. They are known for their commitment to community and employee growth.
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Vision Trucking
Average Salary: $75,773
Vision Trucking provides transportation services. They are known for their safe and reliable services, offering good compensation to their drivers.
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Pratt & Whitney
Average Salary: $75,599
Pratt & Whitney is an aerospace company that designs and manufactures aircraft engines. They are leaders in their field and offer competitive salaries.
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Encompass Health
Average Salary: $69,036
Encompass Health provides rehabilitation and acute care services. They are dedicated to helping patients recover and return to their lives.
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Valley Healthcare System, Inc.
Average Salary: $68,857
Valley Healthcare System offers mental health and substance abuse treatment. They focus on providing compassionate and effective care to those in need.
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TSYS
Average Salary: $68,087
TSYS provides payment processing and financial technology services. They are known for their innovative approach and employee development.
How does the cost of living in Columbus, GA compare to the national average?

Job seekers considering Columbus, GA, will find the cost of living to be notably lower than the nationwide average. The housing index, for instance, is at 81, which means housing costs are 19% below the national average. This can help new residents stretch their budgets further, making Columbus an attractive option for those looking to live more comfortably without breaking the bank.
In addition to housing, other key areas show Columbus maintaining a lower cost of living. Groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses all have indices of 92, 95, 84, 97, and 90, respectively. These figures indicate that overall living expenses in Columbus are 8% below the national average. The transportation index of 84 suggests that getting around the city is also cheaper than the average, and while healthcare costs are slightly above average at 97, the lower housing costs help balance the overall expense.



