Actuary Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median actuary salary in Columbia, SC is $102,591 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Actuary Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median actuary salary of $102,591, which is $1,140 above the South Carolina state average of $101,451. Compared to the national median of $113,990, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Columbia's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for actuarys in Columbia spans from $61,560 at the 10th percentile to $176,409 at the 90th percentile — a $114,849 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $63,000, while senior actuarys with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $157,500. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Actuary Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level actuary earns around $63,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $157,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $61,560 |
| 25th Percentile | $78,480 |
| Median (50th) | $102,591 |
| 75th Percentile | $135,900 |
| 90th Percentile | $176,409 |
Actuary Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Actuary in Columbia
Education
Most actuary positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, actuary employment is projected to grow 21% over the next decade (much faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Actuary Jobs in Columbia
Browse open actuary positions in Columbia, SC: