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.
Machinist Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median machinist salary of $43,983, which is $489 above the South Carolina state average of $43,494. Compared to the national median of $48,870, 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 machinists in Columbia spans from $28,800 at the 10th percentile to $66,600 at the 90th percentile — a $37,800 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $30,600, while senior machinists with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $64,800. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
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.
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
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.
Find Machinist Jobs in Columbia
Browse open machinist positions in Columbia, SC: