Correctional Officer Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median correctional officer salary in Charleston, SC is $49,610 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Correctional Officer Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median correctional officer salary of $49,610, which is $5,457 above the South Carolina state average of $44,153. Compared to the national median of $49,610, Charleston pays above average for this role.
Charleston's cost of living is 100% 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 correctional officers in Charleston spans from $33,000 at the 10th percentile to $78,000 at the 90th percentile — a $45,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $35,000, while senior correctional officers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Correctional Officer Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level correctional officer earns around $35,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $33,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,000 |
| Median (50th) | $49,610 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $78,000 |
Correctional Officer Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Correctional Officer in Charleston
Education
Most correctional officer positions require a high school diploma. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, correctional officer employment is projected to grow -2% over the next decade (decline). Demand in Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Correctional Officer Jobs in Charleston
Browse open correctional officer positions in Charleston, SC: