Salaries in Columbus, MS

Updated on Jun 05, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Columbus, MS?

The average salary in Columbus, MS is $51,308 per year.

Columbus, MS, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average salary in the area is around $51,308. This figure provides a good overview of what job seekers might expect. Salaries can vary widely based on the job sector and experience level.


Some of the highest-paying jobs in Columbus include roles in management, healthcare, and engineering. For example, managers earn an average of $103,818, while healthcare professionals can make around $89,882. Engineers also see competitive salaries, with an average of $75,945. Lower-paying jobs, such as those in retail and food service, start at around $23,540. Despite these differences, Columbus provides a balanced job market with opportunities for growth and advancement.

View jobs in Columbus, MS

What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS?

Columbus, MS, offers a variety of high-paying job opportunities. Registered Nurses lead the way with an average salary of $71,297. Field Service Technicians also earn a strong income at $49,835. These roles provide good compensation and stability for those seeking well-paying jobs. Other top-paying jobs in Columbus include Licensed Practical Nurses, General Managers, and Restaurant Managers. These positions offer competitive salaries and the chance to grow in your career. Maintenance Technicians, Administrative Assistants, and Delivery Drivers also provide good earning potential. These jobs are ideal for those looking to balance pay with job satisfaction.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $71,297 and Server with the lowest at $30,557.
  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $71,297
    Registered nurses provide care in hospitals and clinics. They work with doctors and other healthcare staff. They monitor patients and administer treatments.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. Field Service Technician
    Average Salary: $49,835
    Field service technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work for companies that provide technical support. They travel to different locations to fix issues.
    Find Field Service Technician jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $48,586
    Licensed practical nurses assist doctors and registered nurses. They work in hospitals and care facilities. They take care of patients and help with daily activities.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. General Manager
    Average Salary: $48,001
    General managers oversee business operations. They work in retail, hospitality, and other industries. They manage staff and ensure smooth operations.
    Find General Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $45,929
    Restaurant managers run dining establishments. They handle staff and customer service. They ensure the restaurant runs efficiently and meets customer needs.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $44,357
    Maintenance technicians fix and maintain equipment. They work in various settings, including factories and offices. They ensure machines run properly and safely.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Administrative Assistant
    Average Salary: $34,705
    Administrative assistants support office operations. They handle scheduling, correspondence, and data entry. They work for businesses and organizations to keep things running smoothly.
    Find Administrative Assistant jobs in Columbus, MS


  8. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $32,449
    Delivery drivers transport goods to customers. They work for delivery services and retail companies. They ensure timely and safe delivery of items.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Columbus, MS


  9. Shift Leader
    Average Salary: $30,626
    Shift leaders supervise staff during their shifts. They work in retail, food service, and other industries. They ensure tasks are completed and staff are managed effectively.
    Find Shift Leader jobs in Columbus, MS


  10. Server
    Average Salary: $30,557
    Servers work in restaurants and cafes. They take orders and serve food and drinks. They interact with customers to ensure a pleasant dining experience.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS

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

Columbus, MS, offers a variety of high-paying jobs that do not require a degree. These roles provide good earning potential and valuable work experience. For instance, a restaurant manager can earn around $40,823 annually, while a line cook can make about $30,992 per year. These positions allow individuals to start their careers with competitive salaries and the opportunity to grow in their chosen fields.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $40,823 and Kitchen Team Member with the lowest at $23,474.
  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $40,823
    Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. Work in local eateries like The Local Spot or The Corner Café.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $30,992
    Prepare ingredients and cook meals in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Opportunities exist at places like The Diner and The Grill House.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. Server
    Average Salary: $30,557
    Take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. Ensure a pleasant dining experience. Work in restaurants such as The Bistro and The Family Table.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. Barista
    Average Salary: $29,756
    Prepare coffee and other beverages. Serve customers with a friendly smile. Opportunities are available at local coffee shops like The Coffee Bean and The Brew House.
    Find Barista jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Groundskeeper
    Average Salary: $28,462
    Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, or businesses. Perform tasks like mowing, trimming, and planting. Work in public spaces or private properties.
    Find Groundskeeper jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $27,316
    Clean dishes and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and hygienic environment. Opportunities are available in restaurants and cafes.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $25,721
    Assist customers with their needs. Provide excellent service and support. Work in retail stores or service-oriented businesses.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Columbus, MS


  8. Server Assistant
    Average Salary: $24,069
    Support the server in taking orders and serving food. Ensure a smooth dining experience. Opportunities exist in various dining establishments.
    Find Server Assistant jobs in Columbus, MS


  9. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $24,063
    Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or residential properties. Ensure a tidy and comfortable environment. Work in local hotels or apartment complexes.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Columbus, MS


  10. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $23,474
    Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Support the kitchen staff in ensuring smooth operations. Opportunities are available in various dining establishments.
    Find Kitchen Team Member jobs in Columbus, MS

Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, MS?

Job seekers in Columbus, MS, have a variety of companies to consider for higher salaries. The Systems Group leads the way with an average salary of $60,559. Baptist Memorial Health Care follows closely, offering an average salary of $51,750. These figures highlight the potential for competitive earnings in the healthcare and technology sectors. Other notable employers include Mississippi University for Women, Sonic Drive-In, and Sodexo, each providing salaries above $30,000. KFC, Cracker Barrel, and Domino's also offer competitive wages, making them attractive options for those seeking stable employment. These companies demonstrate the range of opportunities available in Columbus for those looking to advance their careers.
Graph displaying company salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting The Systems Group with the highest at $60,559 and Domino's with the lowest at $27,635.
  1. The Systems Group
    Average Salary: $60,559
    The Systems Group offers a variety of technology and consulting services. They focus on helping businesses improve their operations and efficiency.


  2. Baptist Memorial Health Care
    Average Salary: $51,750
    Baptist Memorial Health Care is a leading healthcare provider in the region. They offer a wide range of medical services and are known for their quality care.


  3. Mississippi University for Women
    Average Salary: $44,018
    Mississippi University for Women is a public university offering a variety of academic programs. They focus on providing a quality education to their students.


  4. Sonic Drive-In
    Average Salary: $32,313
    Sonic Drive-In is a popular fast-food chain known for its classic drive-in service. They offer a variety of fast food items and are a local favorite.


  5. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $31,489
    Sodexo provides food services and facilities management. They work in many sectors, including schools, hospitals, and businesses.


  6. KFC
    Average Salary: $29,792
    KFC is a well-known fast-food chain famous for its fried chicken. They offer a variety of menu items and are a popular choice for quick meals.


  7. Cracker Barrel
    Average Salary: $29,100
    Cracker Barrel is a popular family restaurant chain. They offer a mix of American cuisine and a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere.


  8. Domino's
    Average Salary: $27,635
    Domino's is a leading pizza delivery company. They offer a variety of pizza options and are known for their quick delivery service.

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

Columbus, MS, offers a cost of living that is notably lower than the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Columbus stands at 88, which is 12% below the national average of 100. This lower cost of living makes Columbus an attractive option for job seekers looking to maximize their purchasing power. Housing costs in Columbus are particularly favorable, with an index of 79, representing a 21% reduction from the national average. This affordability extends to other areas such as groceries, utilities, and transportation, all of which are also below the national average. Job seekers can expect to find a more budget-friendly lifestyle in Columbus, making it a smart choice for those looking to stretch their dollars further.
Cost of living comparison graph for Columbus, MS vs. Nationwide: housing 21% lower, groceries 8% lower, utilities 15% lower, transportation 12% lower, healthcare 3% lower, miscellaneous 10% lower.

The cost of living in Columbus, MS, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing costs in Columbus stand at 79, indicating that residents can expect to spend 21% less than the average American. This lower housing index makes Columbus an attractive option for those seeking affordability without sacrificing quality of life.


Additionally, the grocery cost of living in Columbus is 92, which is only 8% below the national average. Utilities, another significant expense, are priced at 85, meaning residents pay 15% less than the average. Transportation costs are slightly above average at 88, which is a modest 12% increase. Healthcare costs in Columbus, however, are slightly higher than the national average at 97, reflecting a 3% increase. Miscellaneous expenses, which include items like clothing and entertainment, are at 90, indicating a 10% savings compared to the national average. Overall, Columbus offers a cost of living that is generally lower than the national average, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious individuals.

There are 529 job openings in Columbus, MS, today!

Take a deeper dive into the job market in Columbus, MS

Discover what it's like to work in Columbus, MS. Learn if you need a car, explore popular employers, the job market, and the best neighborhoods to live in.
City
Overview
Columbus, MS
529 Job Openings