Personal Care & Fitness South Carolina (SC) Rank #40 of 50

Esthetician Salary in South Carolina

The median esthetician salary in South Carolina is $33,998 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $38,200.

Median Salary
$33,998
vs National
$-4,202
State Rank
#40 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Esthetician Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)

South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for esthetician compensation. Esthetician salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $33,998 per year, estheticians in South Carolina earn $4,202 less than the national median of $38,200.

A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $33,998 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $38,200 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: estheticians at the 10th percentile earn $21,360, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $57,850 — a $36,490 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 $40,110.

Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Carolina and beyond.

Esthetician Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level esthetician earns around $23,140, while experienced professionals earn up to $55,180 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$23,140
$-2,860 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$34,710
$-4,290 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$55,180
$-6,820 vs national

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Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile SC Salary
10th Percentile $21,360
25th Percentile $26,700
Median (50th) $33,998
75th Percentile $46,280
90th Percentile $57,850

Esthetician Salary by City in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for estheticians 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 Esthetician in South Carolina

Education

Most esthetician positions require a postsecondary nondegree award. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

SkincareFacial TreatmentsProduct KnowledgeClient ConsultationSanitationAnatomy

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, esthetician employment is projected to grow 17% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

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Frequently Asked Questions: Esthetician Salary in South Carolina

How much does a Esthetician make in South Carolina? ▼
The median esthetician salary in South Carolina is $33,998 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $38,200. Salaries range from $21,360 (10th percentile) to $57,850 (90th percentile).
How much does a Esthetician make per hour in South Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $33,998, a esthetician in South Carolina earns approximately $16 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Carolina a good state for estheticians? ▼
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for esthetician pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level estheticians earn $23,140, while senior professionals earn $55,180.
How does South Carolina compare to other states for esthetician salary? ▼
The highest paying state for estheticians is Hawaii at $64,940. South Carolina's median of $33,998 ranks #40 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Ohio ($34,380) and Iowa ($33,998).
What is the entry-level esthetician salary in South Carolina? ▼
An entry-level esthetician in South Carolina earns approximately $23,140 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $34,710. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $55,180.
What city in South Carolina pays estheticians the most? ▼
Mount Pleasant is the highest paying city in South Carolina for estheticians, with a median salary of $40,110. Other cities include Charleston and Columbia.