Machinist Salary in Charleston, South Carolina
The median machinist salary in Charleston, SC is $48,870 per year, which is 0.0% above the national median and 12.4% above the South Carolina state average.
Machinist Pay in Charleston: What to Expect (2026)
Charleston offers a median machinist salary of $48,870, which is $5,376 above the South Carolina state average of $43,494. Compared to the national median of $48,870, 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 machinists in Charleston spans from $32,000 at the 10th percentile to $74,000 at the 90th percentile — a $42,000 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,000, while senior machinists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $72,000. With a population of 150,227, Charleston is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Machinist Salary in Charleston by Experience
In Charleston, an entry-level machinist earns around $34,000, while experienced professionals earn up to $72,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 100% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Charleston, SC
| Percentile | Charleston |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,000 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,000 |
| Median (50th) | $48,870 |
| 75th Percentile | $61,000 |
| 90th Percentile | $74,000 |
Machinist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Machinist in Charleston
Education
Most machinist positions require a high school diploma. Charleston and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, machinist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Charleston may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Machinist Jobs in Charleston
Browse open machinist positions in Charleston, SC: