What is the average salary in Columbus, MS?
The average yearly salary in Columbus, MS, is $52,176. This figure provides a good overview of the earning potential in the area. Salaries vary across different industries and roles, offering a range of opportunities for job seekers.
Here are some common salary ranges in Columbus, MS:
- Retail: $20,000 - $33,636
- Healthcare: $33,636 - $47,273
- Education: $47,273 - $60,909
- Manufacturing: $60,909 - $74,545
- Information Technology: $74,545 - $88,182
- Finance: $88,182 - $101,818
- Professional Services: $101,818 - $115,455
- Management: $115,455 - $129,091
- Engineering: $129,091 - $142,727
- Executive: $142,727 - $156,364
- Top Executive: $156,364 - $170,000
What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS?

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Registered Nurse
Average Salary: $68,711
Registered nurses provide care for patients and help them manage their health. They work in hospitals, clinics, and care homes. Local employers include Baptist Memorial Hospital-Golden Triangle and other healthcare facilities.
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General Manager
Average Salary: $48,489
General managers oversee daily operations of a business. They ensure smooth running of the business and meet customer needs. Companies like Walmart and local restaurants need skilled managers.
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Licensed Practical Nurse
Average Salary: $48,162
Licensed practical nurses provide basic medical care. They work under the supervision of doctors and registered nurses. They can find jobs in hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics in the area.
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Maintenance Technician
Average Salary: $45,605
Maintenance technicians fix and maintain equipment and facilities. They ensure everything runs smoothly. They work in various industries, including manufacturing and hospitality. Local employers include manufacturing plants and hotels.
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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $43,898
Restaurant managers oversee the daily operations of a restaurant. They manage staff, ensure customer satisfaction, and handle finances. They work in local restaurants and cafes, ensuring smooth service.
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Delivery Driver
Average Salary: $33,464
Delivery drivers transport goods from one place to another. They ensure timely delivery of items. They work for companies like Amazon and local businesses, delivering packages and goods.
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Server
Average Salary: $31,172
Servers take orders and serve food and drinks to customers. They ensure a pleasant dining experience. They work in local restaurants, providing excellent service to guests.
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Shift Leader
Average Salary: $31,082
Shift leaders oversee a team during a specific shift. They ensure tasks are completed efficiently. They work in retail, food service, and manufacturing. Local employers include Walmart and local stores.
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Housekeeper
Average Salary: $29,018
Housekeepers clean and maintain living spaces. They ensure a clean and tidy environment. They work in hotels, residential homes, and care facilities, providing essential cleaning services.
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Customer Service Representative
Average Salary: $27,933
Customer service representatives assist customers with inquiries and issues. They ensure customer satisfaction. They work in various industries, including retail and telecommunications, providing support and resolving problems.
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What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS without a degree?

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Restaurant Manager
Average Salary: $40,452
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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Server
Average Salary: $31,172
Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Opportunities exist in places like The Local Bistro.
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Barista
Average Salary: $30,632
Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and maintain a clean work area. Work in coffee shops like The Brew House.
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Line Cook
Average Salary: $29,539
Prepare ingredients and cook food in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Positions available in restaurants like The Grill House.
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Groundskeeper
Average Salary: $28,586
Maintain the grounds of properties. Perform landscaping tasks and ensure a clean environment. Work in local parks and private properties.
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Dishwasher
Average Salary: $27,266
Clean dishes and kitchen utensils. Maintain a clean and organized kitchen. Opportunities in restaurants like The Diner.
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Service Team Member
Average Salary: $25,700
Assist customers with their needs. Provide excellent service and ensure a positive experience. Work in retail stores like The Market.
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Housekeeping
Average Salary: $24,175
Clean and maintain guest rooms and common areas. Ensure a clean and welcoming environment. Opportunities in hotels like The Inn.
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Kitchen Team Member
Average Salary: $23,738
Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Support chefs and cooks in a busy kitchen. Work in restaurants like The Family Kitchen.
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Which companies offer the top salaries in Columbus, MS?

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The Systems Group
Average Salary: $61,122
The Systems Group offers a variety of roles in technology and engineering. They focus on providing innovative solutions to their clients. Employees enjoy a competitive salary and benefits.
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Baptist Memorial Health Care
Average Salary: $50,051
Baptist Memorial Health Care is a leading healthcare provider in the region. They offer many opportunities in nursing, administration, and support services. Their salaries are among the highest in the area.
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Walgreens
Average Salary: $45,568
Walgreens is a well-known pharmacy chain. They offer jobs in retail and pharmacy services. Employees benefit from a stable work environment and good pay.
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Mississippi University for Women
Average Salary: $44,046
Mississippi University for Women is a public university. They offer teaching and administrative roles. The university provides a supportive community and fair compensation.
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Sonic Drive-In
Average Salary: $33,193
Sonic Drive-In is a popular fast-food chain. They offer jobs in food service and management. Employees enjoy a friendly atmosphere and decent pay.
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Sodexo
Average Salary: $30,411
Sodexo provides food and facility services. They offer roles in dining and support services. Employees benefit from a stable job and good benefits.
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Cracker Barrel
Average Salary: $30,172
Cracker Barrel is a restaurant chain. They offer jobs in dining and hospitality. Employees enjoy a welcoming environment and fair pay.
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KFC
Average Salary: $30,030
KFC is a fast-food chain known for its chicken. They offer roles in food service and management. Employees benefit from a fast-paced work environment and decent pay.
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. Housing costs in Columbus are notably lower, with an index of 70. This means residents spend 30% less on housing compared to the national average. Lower housing costs can significantly reduce overall living expenses, making it an attractive option for those looking to manage their budgets more effectively.
In addition to housing, other living expenses in Columbus also show a positive trend. For instance, groceries have an index of 92, indicating a 2% increase over the national average. Utilities and transportation are slightly below average, with indices of 87 and 85, respectively. This means residents spend 13% less on utilities and 15% less on transportation. Healthcare costs are also slightly lower, with an index of 90, showing a 10% savings. Miscellaneous expenses, with an index of 80, reflect a 20% reduction compared to the national average. These factors collectively contribute to a more affordable lifestyle in Columbus.