What is the average salary in Columbus, MS?
Columbus, MS, offers a range of salary opportunities across various industries. The average yearly salary in the area is around $52,165. This figure provides a good overview of what job seekers might expect to earn. Salaries vary based on the industry and the specific role.
Some of the top-paying industries in Columbus include:
- Information Technology: $88,182
- Healthcare: $74,545
- Finance: $60,909
- Education: $47,273
- Retail: $33,636
These figures show that certain sectors offer higher salaries, making them attractive to job seekers. Exploring these industries can lead to better financial opportunities.
What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $68,868
Registered Nurses provide and coordinate patient care. They work in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities. They assess patient conditions, administer medications, and collaborate with doctors.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $48,631
Licensed Practical Nurses offer basic medical care. They work in hospitals, nursing homes, and outpatient care centers. They monitor patients, record vital signs, and assist with daily activities.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $48,287
General Managers oversee business operations. They work in retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. They manage staff, handle budgets, and ensure customer satisfaction.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $44,826
Maintenance Technicians repair and maintain equipment. They work in factories, schools, and office buildings. They troubleshoot issues, perform routine checks, and ensure safety standards.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $43,951
Restaurant Managers run daily operations. They work in various dining establishments. They manage staff, oversee food quality, and ensure customer satisfaction.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $32,668
Delivery Drivers transport goods. They work for delivery services and companies. They deliver packages, ensure timely arrivals, and handle customer interactions.
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Server
Average Salary: $30,989
Servers take orders and serve food. They work in restaurants and cafes. They interact with customers, take orders, and ensure a pleasant dining experience.
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Shift Leader
Average Salary: $30,961
Shift Leaders supervise staff during shifts. They work in retail, hospitality, and manufacturing. They manage team performance, handle customer inquiries, and ensure smooth operations.
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Housekeeper
Average Salary: $29,132
Housekeepers clean and maintain spaces. They work in hotels, offices, and private homes. They tidy rooms, do laundry, and ensure a clean environment.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $27,942
Customer Service Representatives assist customers. They work in call centers and retail. They handle inquiries, resolve issues, and provide information.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $40,000
Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure smooth service. Work in local eateries like The Corner Café.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $30,992
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Find opportunities in places like The Local Diner.
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Server
Average Salary: $30,989
Take orders, serve food, and interact with customers. Ensure a good dining experience. Work in restaurants such as The Family Table.
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Barista
Average Salary: $29,799
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and maintain a clean workspace. Opportunities exist in coffee shops like The Morning Brew.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $28,096
Maintain the grounds of parks, schools, and other properties. Perform landscaping tasks and ensure a safe environment. Work for local government or private properties.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $27,361
Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Ensure a clean and efficient kitchen. Find jobs in restaurants and cafes around the city.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $25,665
Assist customers with their needs and provide excellent service. Work in retail or service environments. Opportunities are available in stores like The Shopping Center.
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Server Assistant
Average Salary: $24,659
Support servers by setting up tables, refilling supplies, and assisting with service. Work in a busy restaurant environment. Look for positions in local dining spots.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $23,977
Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or residential properties. Ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment. Opportunities exist in hotels and motels.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $23,908
Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Work in a fast-paced environment. Find jobs in local restaurants and cafes.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, MS?

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The Systems Group
Average Salary: $60,779
The Systems Group offers a wide range of services in technology and consulting. They provide excellent benefits and competitive salaries.
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Baptist Memorial Health Care
Average Salary: $50,106
Baptist Memorial Health Care is a leading healthcare provider in the region. They offer a supportive work environment and good compensation.
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Mississippi University for Women
Average Salary: $43,467
Mississippi University for Women offers a variety of educational services. They provide a stable work environment with decent salaries.
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Sonic Drive-In
Average Salary: $33,549
Sonic Drive-In is a popular fast-food chain. They offer good wages and opportunities for career growth.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $31,645
Sodexo provides food services and facilities management. They offer competitive pay and benefits.
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Cracker Barrel
Average Salary: $29,900
Cracker Barrel is a well-known restaurant chain. They offer good wages and a friendly work environment.
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KFC
Average Salary: $29,847
KFC is a fast-food chain that offers good salaries and opportunities for advancement.
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Domino's
Average Salary: $27,382
Domino's is a leading pizza delivery company. They offer competitive pay and flexible work hours.
How does the cost of living in Columbus, MS compare to the national average?

The cost of living in Columbus, MS, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. The housing index in Columbus stands at 75, indicating that housing costs are 25% lower than the national average. This makes it a more affordable option for those looking to settle in the area. Additionally, groceries in Columbus are priced at 90, which is 10% lower than the average, offering some relief to those managing household budgets.
Transportation costs in Columbus are also slightly below the national average, with an index of 85, meaning they are 15% cheaper. Utilities and healthcare in Columbus are close to the national average, with indices of 95 and 95, respectively. This suggests that these essential services are priced similarly to what one might find elsewhere. Miscellaneous costs, however, are at 80, indicating a 20% reduction compared to the national average. Overall, Columbus provides a cost-effective living environment that can be attractive to job seekers and families.