Science & Research Columbia, SC
Pop. 131,674
Physicist Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median physicist salary in Columbia, SC is $137,187 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
City Median
$137,187
vs State Avg
+$1,524
vs National
$-15,243
Cost of Living
90%
Physicist Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level physicist earns around $73,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $198,000 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$73,800
$-8,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$139,500
$-15,500 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$198,000
$-22,000 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $70,200 |
| 25th Percentile | $97,200 |
| Median (50th) | $137,187 |
| 75th Percentile | $175,500 |
| 90th Percentile | $214,200 |
Physicist Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Physicist in Columbia
Education
Most physicist positions require a doctoral degree. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Mathematical ModelingExperimental PhysicsPython/MATLABData AnalysisScientific WritingLaboratory Equipment
Job Outlook
Nationally, physicist employment is projected to grow 8% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.