Automotive & Maintenance South Carolina (SC) Rank #40 of 50

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in South Carolina

The median aircraft mechanic salary in South Carolina is $58,340 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,550.

Median Salary
$58,340
vs National
$-7,210
State Rank
#40 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Aircraft Mechanic Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)

South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic compensation. Aircraft Mechanic salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $58,340 per year, aircraft mechanics in South Carolina earn $7,210 less than the national median of $65,550.

A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $58,340 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $65,551 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: aircraft mechanics at the 10th percentile earn $37,380, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $89,890 — a $52,510 gap that reflects differences in experience, specialization, employer type, and metro area. The highest-paying city in South Carolina for this role is Mount Pleasant, where the median reaches $68,828.

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for aircraft mechanics across the country.

Aircraft Mechanic Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level aircraft mechanic earns around $39,160, while experienced professionals earn up to $85,440 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$39,160
$-4,840 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,630
$-7,370 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$85,440
$-10,560 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile SC Salary
10th Percentile $37,380
25th Percentile $46,280
Median (50th) $58,340
75th Percentile $74,760
90th Percentile $89,890

Aircraft Mechanic Salary by City in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for aircraft mechanics in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

How to Become a Aircraft Mechanic in South Carolina

Education

Most aircraft mechanic positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

Aircraft SystemsA&P CertificationFAA RegulationsAvionicsTroubleshootingSafety Protocols

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, aircraft mechanic employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Aircraft Mechanic Salary in South Carolina

How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make in South Carolina? ▼
The median aircraft mechanic salary in South Carolina is $58,340 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $65,550. Salaries range from $37,380 (10th percentile) to $89,890 (90th percentile).
How much does a Aircraft Mechanic make per hour in South Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $58,340, a aircraft mechanic in South Carolina earns approximately $28 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Carolina a good state for aircraft mechanics? ▼
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for aircraft mechanic pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level aircraft mechanics earn $39,160, while senior professionals earn $85,440.
How does South Carolina compare to other states for aircraft mechanic salary? ▼
The highest paying state for aircraft mechanics is Hawaii at $111,435. South Carolina's median of $58,340 ranks #40 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Ohio ($58,995) and Iowa ($58,340).
What is the entry-level aircraft mechanic salary in South Carolina? ▼
An entry-level aircraft mechanic in South Carolina earns approximately $39,160 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $59,630. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $85,440.
What city in South Carolina pays aircraft mechanics the most? ▼
Mount Pleasant is the highest paying city in South Carolina for aircraft mechanics, with a median salary of $68,828. Other cities include Charleston and Columbia.