Overview Salaries

Salaries in Columbus, MS

Updated on Nov 10, 2025
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Salary

What is the average salary in Columbus, MS?

The average salary in Columbus, MS is $52,687 per year.
Yearly
Monthly
Weekly
Hourly
Graph depicting the yearly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $52,687 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the monthly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $4,391 with varying distribution percentages across salary ranges.
Graph depicting the weekly salary distribution for Columbus, MS, showing an average salary of $1,013 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.

Columbus, MS, offers a diverse job market with competitive salaries. The average yearly salary is $52,687. This figure reflects a range of opportunities across various industries. Job seekers can find roles that match their skills and experience levels.


The salary distribution shows a broad spectrum of earnings. The most common salaries fall between $34,005 and $76,018. This range includes many positions in sectors like healthcare, education, and retail. Higher-paying jobs are available in fields such as engineering, IT, and finance. The top earners in Columbus make over $146,041 annually. These positions often require specialized skills and advanced degrees.

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What are the best paying jobs in Columbus, MS?

Columbus, MS, offers a range of high-paying job opportunities. Registered Nurses lead the way with an average salary of $68,624. This role is crucial for patient care and requires dedication and skill. Licensed Practical Nurses also earn a solid income, averaging $48,685 annually. This position plays a vital role in healthcare, providing essential support to medical professionals. Other top-paying jobs include General Managers, who earn around $48,590. They manage businesses and ensure smooth operations. Maintenance Technicians and Restaurant Managers earn about $45,758 and $43,768, respectively. These roles require technical skills and strong leadership abilities. Job seekers in Columbus can find rewarding and well-compensated positions in these fields.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting Registered Nurse with the highest at $68,624 and Housekeeper with the lowest at $28,917.

  1. Registered Nurse
    Average Salary: $68,624
    Registered Nurses provide care in hospitals and clinics. They work with patients and doctors. They monitor patients and administer treatments.
    Find Registered Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. Licensed Practical Nurse
    Average Salary: $48,685
    Licensed Practical Nurses assist doctors and Registered Nurses. They work in hospitals and care facilities. They take care of patients and provide basic medical care.
    Find Licensed Practical Nurse jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. General Manager
    Average Salary: $48,590
    General Managers oversee business operations. They work in retail and hospitality. They manage staff and ensure smooth operations.
    Find General Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. Maintenance Technician
    Average Salary: $45,758
    Maintenance Technicians fix and maintain equipment. They work in various industries. They ensure machines run smoothly and safely.
    Find Maintenance Technician jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $43,768
    Restaurant Managers run daily operations. They work in dining establishments. They oversee staff and ensure customer satisfaction.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Delivery Driver
    Average Salary: $34,146
    Delivery Drivers deliver goods to customers. They work for various companies. They ensure timely and safe deliveries.
    Find Delivery Driver jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Server
    Average Salary: $31,259
    Servers take orders and serve food. They work in restaurants and cafes. They interact with customers and ensure a pleasant dining experience.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS


  8. Shift Leader
    Average Salary: $31,157
    Shift Leaders supervise staff during their shifts. They work in retail and hospitality. They ensure tasks are completed efficiently.
    Find Shift Leader jobs in Columbus, MS


  9. Customer Service Representative
    Average Salary: $31,061
    Customer Service Representatives assist customers. They work in various industries. They handle inquiries and provide support.
    Find Customer Service Representative jobs in Columbus, MS


  10. Housekeeper
    Average Salary: $28,917
    Housekeepers clean and maintain spaces. They work in hotels and private homes. They ensure a clean and comfortable environment.
    Find Housekeeper jobs in Columbus, MS

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

Columbus, MS offers several high-paying jobs that do not require a college degree. Restaurant managers can earn an average of $40,452 annually. This role involves overseeing daily operations and ensuring customer satisfaction. Other well-paying positions include servers, earning around $31,259 per year, and baristas, with an average salary of $30,821. These jobs provide good opportunities for those seeking stable income without needing a degree.
Graph displaying best paying job salaries in Columbus, MS without a degree, highlighting Restaurant Manager with the highest at $40,452 and Kitchen Team Member with the lowest at $23,832.

  1. Restaurant Manager
    Average Salary: $40,452
    Manage daily operations of a restaurant. Oversee staff, handle customer service, and ensure a smooth dining experience. Work in local establishments like The Local Spot.
    Find Restaurant Manager jobs in Columbus, MS


  2. Server
    Average Salary: $31,259
    Serve food and drinks to customers. Take orders, provide recommendations, and ensure a pleasant dining experience. Opportunities exist at places like The Old Spaghetti Factory.
    Find Server jobs in Columbus, MS


  3. Barista
    Average Salary: $30,821
    Prepare and serve coffee and other beverages. Interact with customers and ensure a welcoming atmosphere. Work in coffee shops such as Starbucks or local cafes.
    Find Barista jobs in Columbus, MS


  4. Line Cook
    Average Salary: $28,736
    Prepare ingredients and cook meals in a fast-paced kitchen. Follow recipes and ensure food quality. Opportunities are available in restaurants like Golden Corral.
    Find Line Cook jobs in Columbus, MS


  5. Dishwasher
    Average Salary: $26,903
    Clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. Maintain a clean and organized kitchen area. Work in various dining establishments, including local restaurants.
    Find Dishwasher jobs in Columbus, MS


  6. Service Team Member
    Average Salary: $25,700
    Assist customers with their needs. Provide excellent service and ensure a positive experience. Opportunities are available in retail stores like Walmart.
    Find Service Team Member jobs in Columbus, MS


  7. Housekeeping
    Average Salary: $24,681
    Clean and maintain rooms in hotels or motels. Ensure a comfortable and welcoming environment for guests. Work in local accommodations like Comfort Inn.
    Find Housekeeping jobs in Columbus, MS


  8. Kitchen Team Member
    Average Salary: $23,832
    Assist in food preparation and kitchen tasks. Support chefs and cooks in a busy kitchen. Opportunities can be found 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, can find competitive salaries at several top companies. The Systems Group leads with an average salary of $61,171. Baptist Memorial Health Care offers a solid average salary of $50,007. These companies provide attractive compensation packages for their employees. Other notable employers include Walgreens, Mississippi University for Women, and Sonic Drive-In. Walgreens pays an average of $45,238, while Mississippi University for Women offers $43,273. Sonic Drive-In provides an average salary of $33,253. These companies also offer competitive pay in the local job market.
Graph displaying company salaries in Columbus, MS, highlighting The Systems Group with the highest at $61,171 and Sodexo with the lowest at $29,841.

  1. The Systems Group
    Average Salary: $61,171
    The Systems Group offers a variety of roles in technology and engineering. They focus on providing innovative solutions for their clients. Employees enjoy a competitive salary and benefits.


  2. Baptist Memorial Health Care
    Average Salary: $50,007
    Baptist Memorial Health Care is a leading healthcare provider in the region. They offer a range of medical services and are known for their quality care. Employees benefit from a solid salary and comprehensive benefits.


  3. Walgreens
    Average Salary: $45,238
    Walgreens is a well-known pharmacy chain. They offer jobs in retail and healthcare. Employees receive a good salary and opportunities for career growth.


  4. Mississippi University for Women
    Average Salary: $43,273
    Mississippi University for Women is a public university. They offer education and support services. Employees enjoy a stable salary and a supportive work environment.


  5. Sonic Drive-In
    Average Salary: $33,253
    Sonic Drive-In is a popular fast-food chain. They offer jobs in food service and management. Employees benefit from a decent salary and a friendly atmosphere.


  6. Cracker Barrel
    Average Salary: $30,273
    Cracker Barrel is a restaurant chain known for its American cuisine. They offer jobs in hospitality and food service. Employees receive a fair salary and enjoy a welcoming work environment.


  7. KFC
    Average Salary: $30,030
    KFC is a fast-food chain famous for its fried chicken. They offer jobs in food service and management. Employees benefit from a good salary and opportunities for advancement.


  8. Sodexo
    Average Salary: $29,841
    Sodexo provides food service and facilities management. They offer jobs in various sectors. Employees receive a competitive salary and benefits.

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

Columbus, MS, offers a cost of living that is slightly below the nationwide average. The overall cost of living index for Columbus stands at 90, which is 10% lower than the national average of 100. This makes Columbus a more affordable option for housing, utilities, and other expenses. For job seekers, this means they can enjoy a lower cost of living without sacrificing quality. The lower housing and transportation costs, in particular, provide significant savings. This affordability can be a strong incentive for relocating to Columbus, MS.
Cost of living comparison graph for Columbus, MS vs. Nationwide: housing 15% lower, groceries 8% lower, utilities 5% lower, transportation 10% lower, healthcare 12% lower, miscellaneous 13% lower.

The cost of living in Columbus, MS, presents a favorable comparison to the nationwide average, which is set at 100. Housing, a significant expense, stands at 85 in Columbus, indicating that it costs 15% less than the national average. This lower housing cost can be a significant advantage for job seekers looking to maximize their budget.


Other essential expenses also show Columbus as a cost-effective location. Groceries cost 92, which is 8% less than the national average. Utilities, another critical expense, are priced at 95, just 5% higher than the national average. Transportation costs 90, which is 10% lower than the national average. These figures suggest that living in Columbus can help individuals save on various fronts, making it an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable lifestyle.

There are 360 job openings in Columbus, MS, today!

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