Data Engineer Salary in South Carolina
The median data engineer salary in South Carolina is $108,750 per year, which is 13% below the national median of $125,000.
Data Engineer Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #39 out of 50 states for data engineer compensation. Data Engineer salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $108,750 per year, data engineers in South Carolina earn $16,250 less than the national median of $125,000.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $108,750 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $122,191 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: data engineers at the 10th percentile earn $67,860, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $165,300 — a $97,440 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 $128,750.
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Carolina and beyond.
Data Engineer Salary in South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level data engineer earns around $69,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $156,600 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
You May Qualify for Premium Rewards
Professionals earning $108,750+ often qualify for premium rewards cards with $500+ signup bonuses and 2–5% cashback on every purchase.
View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $67,860 |
| 25th Percentile | $87,000 |
| Median (50th) | $108,750 |
| 75th Percentile | $137,460 |
| 90th Percentile | $165,300 |
Data Engineer Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for data engineers 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 Data Engineer in South Carolina
Education
Most data engineer positions require a bachelor's degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, data engineer employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Data Engineers who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $47,850 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Data Engineer Roles in South Carolina?
Get matched with recruiters hiring data engineers in South Carolina at competitive salaries.
Or browse positions directly: