Economist Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median economist salary in Charleston, SC is $113,940 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Economist Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median economist salary of $113,940, which is $12,533 above the South Carolina state average of $101,407. Compared to the national median of $113,940, 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 economists in Charleston spans from $62,000 at the 10th percentile to $198,000 at the 90th percentile — a $136,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $65,000, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $185,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level economist earns around $65,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $185,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $62,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $82,000 |
| Median (50th) | $113,940 |
| 75th Percentile | $155,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $198,000 |
Economist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Economist in Charleston
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina 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 Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Charleston
Browse open economist positions in Charleston, SC: