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

Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in South Carolina

The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in South Carolina is $70,079 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $78,740.

Median Salary
$70,079
vs National
$-8,661
State Rank
#40 of 50
Cost of Living
89%

Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)

South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for occupational health & safety specialist compensation. Occupational Health & Safety Specialist salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $70,079 per year, occupational health & safety specialists in South Carolina earn $8,661 less than the national median of $78,740.

A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $70,079 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $78,740 in an average-cost area.

The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: occupational health & safety specialists at the 10th percentile earn $42,720, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $108,580 — a $65,860 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 $82,677.

Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for occupational health & safety specialists across the country.

Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in South Carolina by Experience

In South Carolina, an entry-level occupational health & safety specialist earns around $44,500, while experienced professionals earn up to $105,020 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.

Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$44,500
$-5,500 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$71,200
$-8,800 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$105,020
$-12,980 vs national

Build Wealth on Your Income

With a $70,079 income, financial advisors recommend investing 15–20% annually. Start building a diversified portfolio with as little as $10.

See Investment Options →

Salary Percentiles in South Carolina

Percentile SC Salary
10th Percentile $42,720
25th Percentile $55,180
Median (50th) $70,079
75th Percentile $89,000
90th Percentile $108,580

Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary by City in South Carolina

The largest employment areas for occupational health & safety specialists 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 Occupational Health & Safety Specialist in South Carolina

Education

Most occupational health & safety specialist positions require a bachelor's degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.

Key Skills

OSHA RegulationsHazard AssessmentSafety TrainingIndustrial HygieneReport WritingRisk Management

Job Outlook in South Carolina

Nationally, occupational health & safety specialist employment is projected to grow 6% over the next decade (faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.

Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay

Data shows Occupational Health & Safety Specialists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $34,941 over your career trajectory.

Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →

Open to Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Roles in South Carolina?

Get matched with recruiters hiring occupational health & safety specialists in South Carolina at competitive salaries.

Or browse positions directly:

Frequently Asked Questions: Occupational Health & Safety Specialist Salary in South Carolina

How much does a Occupational Health & Safety Specialist make in South Carolina? ▼
The median occupational health & safety specialist salary in South Carolina is $70,079 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $78,740. Salaries range from $42,720 (10th percentile) to $108,580 (90th percentile).
How much does a Occupational Health & Safety Specialist make per hour in South Carolina? ▼
Based on the median annual salary of $70,079, a occupational health & safety specialist in South Carolina earns approximately $34 per hour assuming a standard 2,080-hour work year.
Is South Carolina a good state for occupational health & safety specialists? ▼
South Carolina ranks #40 out of 50 states for occupational health & safety specialist pay. The cost of living index is 89% of the national average. Entry-level occupational health & safety specialists earn $44,500, while senior professionals earn $105,020.
How does South Carolina compare to other states for occupational health & safety specialist salary? ▼
The highest paying state for occupational health & safety specialists is Hawaii at $133,858. South Carolina's median of $70,079 ranks #40 nationally. Nearby-ranked states include Ohio ($70,866) and Iowa ($70,079).
What is the entry-level occupational health & safety specialist salary in South Carolina? ▼
An entry-level occupational health & safety specialist in South Carolina earns approximately $44,500 per year. With 3-7 years of experience, pay increases to around $71,200. Senior-level professionals with 8+ years earn up to $105,020.
What city in South Carolina pays occupational health & safety specialists the most? ▼
Mount Pleasant is the highest paying city in South Carolina for occupational health & safety specialists, with a median salary of $82,677. Other cities include Charleston and Columbia.