Barber Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median barber salary in Columbia, SC is $32,166 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Barber Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median barber salary of $32,166, which is $357 above the South Carolina state average of $31,809. Compared to the national median of $35,740, 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 barbers in Columbia spans from $20,700 at the 10th percentile to $55,800 at the 90th percentile — a $35,100 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $22,500, while senior barbers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $52,200. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Barber Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level barber earns around $22,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $52,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $20,700 |
| 25th Percentile | $25,200 |
| Median (50th) | $32,166 |
| 75th Percentile | $43,200 |
| 90th Percentile | $55,800 |
Barber Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Barber in Columbia
Education
Most barber positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, barber employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Barber Jobs in Columbia
Browse open barber positions in Columbia, SC: