Bus Driver Salary in Columbia, SC

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Bus Driver make in Columbia, SC?

The average salary for a Bus Driver is $40,319 per year in Columbia, SC.

A Bus Driver in Columbia, SC, earns a competitive salary that reflects the importance of their role. On average, Bus Drivers in this area make around $40,319 per year. This figure can vary based on experience, the specific employer, and other factors. The lowest-paid Bus Drivers earn around $26,000, while the highest-paid can reach up to $46,000 annually. This range offers a good opportunity for growth and advancement.

The salary for Bus Drivers in Columbia, SC, includes several key points. First, entry-level drivers can expect to earn around $26,000 to $27,818. As they gain experience, their salary can increase to $29,636 to $31,455. Mid-career drivers, with several years of experience, typically earn between $33,273 and $35,091. Experienced drivers, with over a decade in the field, can see their salary rise to $36,909 to $38,727. The highest earners, often with specialized roles or additional certifications, can make up to $46,000. This salary range shows a clear path for career progression and financial growth.

Bus Driver jobs in Columbia, SC

What are the highest paying cities for a Bus Driver near Columbia, SC?

Job seekers looking for bus driver positions near Columbia, SC, can find higher pay in nearby cities. Florence, SC, offers the highest average salary at $45,096. Myrtle Beach, SC, follows closely with an average salary of $43,455. These cities provide attractive opportunities for those in the bus driving profession.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Bus Driver jobs near Columbia, SC, highlighting Florence, SC with the highest at $45,096 and North Augusta, SC with the lowest at $33,480.
  1. Florence, SC
    Average Salary: $45,096
    In Florence, SC, driving a bus offers a stable job with good pay. The city's public transportation system is expanding, providing more opportunities. Florence Transit is a key employer in this field.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Florence, SC


  2. Myrtle Beach, SC
    Average Salary: $43,455
    Myrtle Beach, SC, is a popular tourist destination, making bus driving a dynamic job. Drivers help tourists navigate the city easily. Myrtle Beach Area Transit (MBAT) is a major employer here.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Myrtle Beach, SC


  3. Charleston, SC
    Average Salary: $42,081
    Charleston, SC, offers a vibrant environment for bus drivers. The city's historic charm attracts many visitors. CARTA provides reliable public transportation services.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Charleston, SC


  4. Rock Hill, SC
    Average Salary: $41,423
    Rock Hill, SC, provides a friendly community for bus drivers. The city's public transit system is growing. Rock Hill Transit is a key employer in this area.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Rock Hill, SC


  5. Greenville, SC
    Average Salary: $37,166
    Greenville, SC, is a bustling city with many opportunities for bus drivers. The city's transit system is well-established. GCTA offers a variety of routes and schedules.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Greenville, SC


  6. Lexington, SC
    Average Salary: $35,645
    Lexington, SC, offers a peaceful environment for bus drivers. The city's public transportation is expanding. Lexington County Public Transit (LexTrans) is a key employer.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Lexington, SC


  7. Spartanburg, SC
    Average Salary: $35,422
    Spartanburg, SC, provides a supportive community for bus drivers. The city's transit system is growing. Spartan Transit offers many routes and schedules.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Spartanburg, SC


  8. Aiken, SC
    Average Salary: $33,684
    Aiken, SC, offers a quiet and friendly environment for bus drivers. The city's public transportation is expanding. Aiken Transit is a key employer.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in Aiken, SC


  9. North Augusta, SC
    Average Salary: $33,480
    North Augusta, SC, provides a stable job for bus drivers. The city's public transit system is growing. North Augusta Transit offers many routes and schedules.
    Find Bus Driver jobs in North Augusta, SC

What are the best paying companies for a Bus Driver in Columbia, SC?

Flight Adventure Park offers one of the highest salaries for bus drivers in Columbia, SC, with an average of $46,000. The Blood Connection also provides a good salary, around $45,398. Southeastern Stages pays $42,500, making it another attractive option for job seekers. These companies value their drivers and offer competitive pay.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Bus Driver jobs in Columbia, SC, highlighting Flight Adventure Park with the highest at $46,000 and Richland County Recreation Commission with the lowest at $28,400.
  1. Flight Adventure Park
    Average Salary: $46,000
    Flight Adventure Park offers Bus Driver jobs with a focus on safety and fun. They operate in Columbia, SC, providing transportation for park visitors. Drivers work in a dynamic and engaging environment.


  2. The Blood Connection
    Average Salary: $45,398
    The Blood Connection provides Bus Driver jobs with a focus on community service. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport blood donors and staff. This role is ideal for those who value helping others.


  3. Southeastern Stages
    Average Salary: $42,500
    Southeastern Stages offers Bus Driver jobs with a strong emphasis on customer service. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport passengers to various destinations. This company values reliability and punctuality.


  4. YMCA
    Average Salary: $36,500
    YMCA offers Bus Driver jobs with a focus on community and wellness. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport members and participants to various programs. This role is great for those who enjoy a supportive work environment.


  5. Boys & Girls Clubs of America
    Average Salary: $36,000
    Boys & Girls Clubs of America provides Bus Driver jobs with a focus on youth development. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport children to after-school programs. This role is ideal for those who want to make a positive impact on young lives.


  6. RATP Dev
    Average Salary: $34,640
    RATP Dev offers Bus Driver jobs with a focus on public transportation. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport passengers on fixed routes. This company values efficiency and customer satisfaction.


  7. Richland County Recreation Commission
    Average Salary: $28,400
    Richland County Recreation Commission provides Bus Driver jobs with a focus on recreation and leisure. They operate in Columbia, SC, and drivers transport participants to various recreational activities. This role is great for those who enjoy a diverse work schedule.

Currently 1,842 Bus Driver job openings, nationwide.

How's the job market for a Bus Driver in the US?

Learn what a Bus Driver does, how to become one, and understand the job outlook. Get simple steps to start your career as a Bus Driver today.
Position
Overview
Bus Driver
1,842 Job Openings