Economist Salary in Columbus, Ohio
The median economist salary in Columbus, OH is $108,243 per year, which is 5% below the national median and 5.6% above the Ohio state average.
Economist Pay in Columbus: What to Expect (2026)
Columbus offers a median economist salary of $108,243, which is $5,697 above the Ohio state average of $102,546. Compared to the national median of $113,940, Columbus pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Columbus's cost of living is 95% 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 economists in Columbus spans from $58,900 at the 10th percentile to $188,100 at the 90th percentile — a $129,200 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $61,750, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $175,750. As a major metro area with a population of 905,748, Columbus typically offers more job opportunities and employer competition, which can drive salaries higher.
Economist Salary in Columbus by Experience
In Columbus, an entry-level economist earns around $61,750, while experienced professionals earn up to $175,750 per year. The local cost of living index is 95% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbus, OH
| Percentile | Columbus |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $58,900 |
| 25th Percentile | $77,900 |
| Median (50th) | $108,243 |
| 75th Percentile | $147,250 |
| 90th Percentile | $188,100 |
Economist Salary in Other Ohio Cities
How to Become a Economist in Columbus
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Columbus and the surrounding Ohio area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, economist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbus may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Columbus
Browse open economist positions in Columbus, OH: