Social Worker Salary in Columbia, South Carolina
The median social worker salary in Columbia, SC is $49,815 per year, which is 10% below the national median and 1.1% above the South Carolina state average.
Social Worker Pay in Columbia: What to Expect (2026)
Columbia offers a median social worker salary of $49,815, which is $553 above the South Carolina state average of $49,262. Compared to the national median of $55,350, Columbia pays below the national benchmark for this role.
Columbia's cost of living is 90% of the national average, meaning salary figures here closely reflect actual purchasing power. This makes direct comparisons to other cities straightforward.
The salary range for social workers in Columbia spans from $32,760 at the 10th percentile to $79,020 at the 90th percentile — a $46,260 spread. Entry-level professionals start around $34,200, while senior social workers with 8+ years of experience can earn up to $73,800. With a population of 131,674, Columbia is a mid-sized metro with a growing job market.
Social Worker Salary in Columbia by Experience
In Columbia, an entry-level social worker earns around $34,200, while experienced professionals earn up to $73,800 per year. The local cost of living index is 90% of the national average.
Salary Percentiles in Columbia, SC
| Percentile | Columbia |
|---|---|
| 10th Percentile | $32,760 |
| 25th Percentile | $39,780 |
| Median (50th) | $49,815 |
| 75th Percentile | $63,360 |
| 90th Percentile | $79,020 |
Social Worker Salary in Other South Carolina Cities
How to Become a Social Worker in Columbia
Education
Most social worker positions require a bachelor's degree. Columbia and the surrounding South Carolina area have institutions offering relevant programs.
Key Skills
Job Outlook
Nationally, social worker employment is projected to grow 7% over the next decade (faster than average). Demand in Columbia may vary based on local industry and population growth.
Find Social Worker Jobs in Columbia
Browse open social worker positions in Columbia, SC: