Trades & Labor Columbia, SC Pop. 131,674

Machinist Salary in Columbia, South Carolina

The median machinist salary in Columbia, SC is $43,983 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.

City Median
$43,983
vs State Avg
+$489
vs National
$-4,887
Cost of Living
90%

Machinist Salary in Columbia by Experience

In Columbia, an entry-level machinist earns around $30,600, while experienced professionals earn up to $64,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$30,600
$-3,400 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$45,000
$-5,000 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$64,800
$-7,200 vs national

Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC

Percentile Columbia
10th Percentile $28,800
25th Percentile $35,100
Median (50th) $43,983
75th Percentile $54,900
90th Percentile $66,600

Machinist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities

How to Become a Machinist in Columbia

Education

Most machinist positions require a high school diploma. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

CNC ProgrammingBlueprint ReadingPrecision MeasurementMetalworkingCAD/CAMQuality Control

Job Outlook

Nationally, machinist employment is projected to grow 4% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.