Physician Assistant Salary in South Carolina
The median physician assistant salary in South Carolina is $112,149 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $126,010.
Physician Assistant Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #41 out of 50 states for physician assistant compensation. Physician Assistant salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $112,149 per year, physician assistants in South Carolina earn $13,861 less than the national median of $126,010.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $112,149 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $126,010 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: physician assistants at the 10th percentile earn $74,760, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $154,860 — a $80,100 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 $132,311.
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). This strong growth suggests increasing demand and competitive salaries in South Carolina and beyond.
Physician Assistant Salary in South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level physician assistant earns around $78,320, while experienced professionals earn up to $144,180 per year. The cost of living index in South Carolina is 89% of the national average.
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View Offers You Qualify For →Salary Percentiles in South Carolina
| Percentile | SC Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $74,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $94,340 |
| Median (50th) | $112,149 |
| 75th Percentile | $134,390 |
| 90th Percentile | $154,860 |
Physician Assistant Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for physician assistants 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 Physician Assistant in South Carolina
Education
Most physician assistant positions require a master's degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, physician assistant employment is projected to grow 28% over the next decade (much faster than average). South Carolina's demand may vary based on local industry trends.
Negotiate Your Way to Senior Pay
Data shows Physician Assistants who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $32,031 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Physician Assistant Roles in South Carolina?
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