Public Service Columbia, SC
Pop. 131,674
Police Officer Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median police officer salary in Columbia, SC is $59,211 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
City Median
$59,211
vs State Avg
+$658
vs National
$-6,579
Cost of Living
90%
Police Officer Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level police officer earns around $37,800, while experienced professionals earn up to $88,200 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Entry Level (0-2 yrs)
$37,800
$-4,200 vs national
Mid Level (3-7 yrs)
$59,400
$-6,600 vs national
Senior Level (8+ yrs)
$88,200
$-9,800 vs national
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $36,360 |
| 25th Percentile | $46,080 |
| Median (50th) | $59,211 |
| 75th Percentile | $78,480 |
| 90th Percentile | $95,400 |
Police Officer Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Police Officer in Columbia
Education
Most police officer positions require a high school diploma. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Law EnforcementEmergency ResponseReport WritingDe-escalationPhysical FitnessCommunity Policing
Job Outlook
Nationally, police officer employment is projected to grow 3% over the next decade (as fast as average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.