Economist Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median economist salary in Columbia, SC is $102,546 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Economist Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median economist salary of $102,546, which is $1,139 above the South Carolina state average of $101,407. Compared to the national median of $113,940, 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 economists in Columbia spans from $55,800 at the 10th percentile to $178,200 at the 90th percentile — a $122,400 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $58,500, while senior economists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $166,500. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Economist Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level economist earns around $58,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $166,500 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $55,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $73,800 |
| Median (50th) | $102,546 |
| 75th Percentile | $139,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $178,200 |
Economist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Economist in Columbia
Education
Most economist positions require a master's degree. Columbia 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 Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Economist Jobs in Columbia
Browse open economist positions in Columbia, SC: