Psychiatrist Salary in South Carolina
The median psychiatrist salary in South Carolina is $227,511 per year, which is 11% below the national median of $255,630.
Psychiatrist Salary Overview in South Carolina (2026)
South Carolina ranks #41 out of 50 states for psychiatrist compensation. Psychiatrist salaries in South Carolina are below the national median, though the lower cost of living can offset the difference. At $227,511 per year, psychiatrists in South Carolina earn $28,119 less than the national median of $255,630.
A key advantage of working in South Carolina is its below-average cost of living (89% of the national index). This means the $227,511 salary has the purchasing power of roughly $255,630 in an average-cost area.
The salary spread in South Carolina is significant: psychiatrists at the 10th percentile earn $106,800, while those at the 90th percentile bring home $356,000 — a $249,200 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 $268,412.
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). This steady growth indicates stable demand for psychiatrists across the country.
Psychiatrist Salary in South Carolina by Experience
In South Carolina, an entry-level psychiatrist earns around $111,250, while experienced professionals earn up to $342,650 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 | $106,800 |
| 25th Percentile | $155,750 |
| Median (50th) | $227,511 |
| 75th Percentile | $293,700 |
| 90th Percentile | $356,000 |
Psychiatrist Salary by City in South Carolina
The largest employment areas for psychiatrists 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 Psychiatrist in South Carolina
Education
Most psychiatrist positions require a doctoral degree. South Carolina has several accredited institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook in South Carolina
Nationally, psychiatrist employment is projected to grow 7% 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 Psychiatrists who negotiate earn 7–15% more. A single negotiation could add $115,139 over your career trajectory.
Get Negotiation Scripts — $197 →Open to Psychiatrist Roles in South Carolina?
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