Public Service South Carolina (SC) Rank #40 of 50

Firefighter Salary in South Carolina

The median firefighter salary in South Carolina is $45,995 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $51,680.

Median Salary

$45,995

vs National

$-5,685

State Rank

#40 of 50

Cost of Living

89%

Firefighter Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level firefighter earns around $28,480, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,980 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)

$28,480

$-3,520 vs national

Mid Level (3-7 yrs)

$46,280

$-5,720 vs national

Senior Level (8+ yrs)

$72,980

$-9,020 vs national

Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile	SC Salary	National	Difference
10th Percentile	$26,344	$29,600	$-3,256
25th Percentile	$34,354	$38,600	$-4,246
Median (50th)	$45,995	$51,680	$-5,685
75th Percentile	$63,368	$71,200	$-7,832
90th Percentile	$82,592	$92,800	$-10,208

Firefighter Salary by City in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for firefighters in South Carolina include Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and North Charleston. Salaries vary by city based on local cost of living and demand.

Charleston, SC

$51,680

Pop. 150,227 · COL 100%

Columbia, SC

$46,512

Pop. 131,674 · COL 90%

Greenville, SC

$47,546

Pop. 72,095 · COL 92%

North Charleston, SC

$49,096

Pop. 115,382 · COL 95%

Mount Pleasant, SC

$54,264

Pop. 94,171 · COL 105%

How to Become a Firefighter in South Carolina

Education

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

Key Skills

FirefightingEmergency MedicalHazmatPhysical FitnessTeamworkEquipment Operation

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, firefighter employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.