Overview Salaries

Salaries in Columbus, MS

Updated on Jan 12, 2026
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Salary

What is the average salary in Columbus, MS?

The average salary in Columbus, MS is $52,890 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $52,890 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $4,408 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $1,017 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the hourly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $25 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.

Job seekers in Columbus, MS, can expect a variety of salary options across different industries. Columbus offers competitive salaries with an average yearly salary of $52,890. This average helps paint a picture of the potential earnings in the area.

The distribution of salaries in Columbus is diverse. The majority of jobs fall within the $34,005 to $76,018 range. These salaries cover a range of sectors, including retail, healthcare, and education. Job opportunities in higher-paying sectors such as finance and technology are also available, though they make up a smaller percentage of the job market. Understanding this distribution can help job seekers focus on industries that match their skills and career goals.

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What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS?

Columbus, MS offers several well-paying job opportunities. Registered Nurses lead the pack, earning an average salary of $69,452. This role provides excellent compensation and the chance to make a difference in people's lives. General Managers also earn a strong salary, averaging $49,175 annually. This position combines leadership with a steady income, making it a desirable choice. Other high-paying jobs in Columbus include Licensed Practical Nurses, who earn $48,322 per year. Maintenance Technicians and Restaurant Managers also make respectable salaries at $45,613 and $43,858, respectively. These roles combine steady pay with opportunities to grow professionally. Each job offers a pathway to financial stability and career advancement.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $69,452 and Security Guard with the lowest at $30,693.

  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $69,452
    Join the medical team at local hospitals. Provide patient care and work closely with doctors. Opportunities exist at facilities like St. Francis Hospital.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. General Manager
    Average Salary: $49,175
    Oversee daily operations at various businesses. Manage staff, handle finances, and ensure customer satisfaction. Consider positions at local retail stores or restaurants.
    Find General Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $48,322
    Support doctors and registered nurses in patient care. Work in clinics and hospitals. Explore roles at places like River Region Clinic.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $45,613
    Perform repairs and maintenance on equipment. Work in manufacturing or commercial settings. Companies like Blue Ridge Equipment often need skilled technicians.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $43,858
    Manage restaurant staff and operations. Ensure a great dining experience for customers. Many restaurants in the area need experienced managers.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $34,269
    Deliver goods to customers. Requires a valid driver’s license and good customer service skills. Companies like FedEx and local businesses need drivers.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Customer Service Representative
    Average Salary: $31,586
    Help customers with inquiries and issues. Provide excellent service over the phone or in person. Positions are available at many local businesses.
    Find Customer Service Representative jobs in Columbus, MS


  8. Server
    Average Salary: $31,362
    Take orders and serve food to customers in a restaurant. Communicate well with kitchen staff and customers. Many dining spots hire servers regularly.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS


  9. Shift Leader
    Average Salary: $31,170
    Supervise staff during your shift. Ensure tasks are completed and customer service is top-notch. Available in retail and food service sectors.
    Find Shift Leader jobs in Columbus, MS


  10. Security Guard
    Average Salary: $30,693
    Protect property and people. Monitor CCTV and respond to incidents. Companies often seek guards for events and facilities.
    Find Security Guard jobs in Columbus, MS

What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS without a degree?

Job seekers in Columbus, MS, have opportunities in several well-paying positions that do not require a college degree. Leading the list is the restaurant manager role, offering an average salary of $40,667. Other rewarding roles include server, barista, and line cook, with average salaries ranging from $31,362 to $30,821. These positions provide a chance to earn a good income while gaining valuable skills and experience. Servers, baristas, and line cooks also have the potential for higher earnings through tips. This makes these roles attractive for those seeking steady pay and professional growth without needing a degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $40,667 and Kitchen Team Member with the lowest at $23,927.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $40,667
    Manage a restaurant's daily operations. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Companies like local eateries offer opportunities.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. Server
    Average Salary: $31,362
    Take orders and serve food to customers. Provide recommendations and ensure good service. Work in local cafes and dining establishments.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. Barista
    Average Salary: $30,821
    Prepare coffee and other beverages. Serve customers and maintain a clean area. Positions available at local coffee shops.
    Find Barista jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $27,729
    Prepare ingredients and cook dishes in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and instructions from chefs. Ideal for those in local restaurants.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $26,829
    Clean dishes, glasses, and utensils. Ensure kitchen areas are spotless. Work in local restaurants and cafes.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $24,487
    Clean and maintain rooms in a hotel or motel. Ensure a comfortable and safe environment. Find jobs in local accommodations.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $23,927
    Help with food preparation and cooking. Work in a team to ensure timely service. Opportunities exist in local eateries.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Columbus, MS

Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, MS?

Job seekers looking for the best-paying companies in Columbus, MS, have several excellent options. The Systems Group leads the pack with an impressive average salary of $61,300. Baptist Memorial Health Care closely follows with an average salary of $49,761. For those seeking rewarding positions with competitive pay, these companies stand out. Walgreens, Mississippi University for Women, and Sonic Drive-In also offer attractive salary packages, ranging from $45,088 to $42,591. These figures provide a solid foundation for professionals considering their next career move in Columbus.
Graph displaying company salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting The Systems Group with the highest at $61,300 and KFC with the lowest at $30,060.

  1. The Systems Group
    Average Salary: $61,300
    The Systems Group is a key player in the tech industry, offering innovative solutions. They value their employees and provide competitive salaries.


  2. Baptist Memorial Health Care
    Average Salary: $49,761
    Baptist Memorial Health Care offers top-notch medical services. They prioritize their staff's well-being, reflected in their salary offerings.


  3. Walgreens
    Average Salary: $45,088
    Walgreens is a well-known pharmacy chain. They offer a stable work environment with good compensation.


  4. Mississippi University for Women
    Average Salary: $42,591
    Mississippi University for Women is an esteemed educational institution. They provide a nurturing environment and competitive pay for their staff.


  5. Sonic Drive-In
    Average Salary: $32,897
    Sonic Drive-In is a beloved fast-food chain. They offer a fun work atmosphere with fair compensation.


  6. KFC
    Average Salary: $30,060
    KFC is a popular fast-food restaurant. They provide a friendly work environment and decent pay.

How does the cost of living in Columbus, MS compare to the national average?

Columbus, MS, presents a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. With a total cost of living index of approximately 88, Columbus offers various expenses below the national benchmark. The housing index stands at 80, while groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, and miscellaneous expenses hover around 90 to 95, showing that residents can expect lower costs in most areas compared to the national average of 100. The lower cost of living makes Columbus, MS, an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life. Job seekers and families can enjoy significant savings in housing and several other categories while maintaining a good standard of living.
Cost of living comparison graph for Columbus, MS vs. Nationwide: housing 20% lower, groceries 10% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 15% lower, healthcare 12% lower, miscellaneous 8% lower.

The cost of living index in Columbus, MS, offers several advantages compared to the nationwide average. Housing costs in Columbus are 20% lower than the national average, which stands at 100. This means that residents can enjoy more affordable housing options, making it easier to manage monthly expenses. Groceries in Columbus are priced at 90 on the cost of living index, which is 10% lower than the average. This slight reduction can add up, providing savings for those who shop for everyday necessities.


Utilities in Columbus are 95 on the cost of living index, just 5% above the nationwide average. While this is slightly higher, it remains relatively close to the national average, ensuring that essential services do not disproportionately increase living expenses. Healthcare costs in Columbus are 88 on the index, which is 12% below the average, offering a positive financial relief. Miscellaneous expenses are at 92, only 8% above the national average, making other costs relatively manageable for residents. Overall, Columbus presents a cost-effective living environment with several categories below the national average.

There are 235 job openings in Columbus, MS, today!

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Columbus, MS
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